NBA stars talk Rockets’ James Harden, Ben McLemore, and more at 2K tourney

Harden’s athleticism

If there’s anyone in the league who knows a thing or two about leaping ability, its Zach LaVine, who is the two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion. LaVine is arguably the league’s best highflyer, as he boasts a 46-inch vertical, and essentially has the ability to do any dunk he wants.

He also can dunk over anyone, which is scary considering the fact that he’s only 25 years-old. LaVine and Ayton were discussing James Harden’s dunking ability and had the below exchange:

Ayton: James got some sneaky bounce

LaVine: He really used to when he was younger. He ain’t worried about no dunking right now.

Ayton: Yeah with his shooting, he need a 4-point line bro.

Ayton stated that Harden has “sneaky bounce”, which is an interesting-yet-accurate choice of words, as Harden certainly isn’t viewed around the league as a highflyer. He’s also not freakishly athletic, unlike Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook, who is unequivocally the most athletic point guard in NBA history.

Harden has never made more than 46 dunks in a season, which is the amount he had in his first season with the Houston Rockets. Harden had fewer dunks than that number during each of the following three seasons, and has had a career-low in dunks this season with 16.

Harden is obviously known for his 3-point shooting, as he’s led the league in triples in each of the last three seasons, while shooting 36.2 percent from deep during that span. Ayton referenced Harden’s shooting, and said the league needs a 4-point line for the Beard’s shooting ability, which is definitely accurate.

Next: McLemore's hops