James Harden showcased his exceptional talent during the 2019-20 NBA season, leading the league in scoring. Playing for the Houston Rockets, he averaged an impressive 34.3 points per game, securing the title of NBA Scoring Champion.
Historic 2019-20 NBA Season
The 2019-20 season was unique, disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted play in March. The regular season commenced in late October 2019 and concluded in mid-August 2020, with playoffs extending into October. Despite these challenges, Harden thrived on the court.
Harden’s Scoring Performance
One of the highlights of Harden’s season occurred on November 30, 2019. He scored a career-high 60 points in a 158-111 victory against the Atlanta Hawks. His shooting statistics for that game included:
- Field Goals: 16 of 24
- Three-Point Field Goals: 8 of 14
- Free Throws: 20 of 23
In addition to his scoring, Harden contributed eight assists, three rebounds, three steals, and a block in just 31 minutes.
Consistent High-Scoring Games
Harden not only reached 60 points but also scored at least 50 points on four other occasions during the season:
- 59 points against the Wizards on October 30
- 55 points against the Cavaliers on December 11
- 54 points against the Magic on December 13
- 50 points against the Spurs on December 3
Despite a 135-133 double-overtime loss to the Spurs in that game, the Rockets boasted a 4-1 record when Harden exceeded 50 points.
All-Around Player
Beyond scoring, Harden demonstrated his versatility. He recorded 40 or more points in 21 games and achieved at least 30 points in 44 of the 68 games he played. His overall statistics included:
- 7.5 assists per game
- 6.6 rebounds per game
- 1.8 steals per game
- 0.9 blocks per game
Harden also notched 22 double-doubles and four triple-doubles. His most significant triple-double performance occurred on January 3, 2020, against the Philadelphia 76ers, where he tallied:
- 44 points
- 11 rebounds
- 11 assists
Acknowledgments and Playoff Performance
For his stellar performance, Harden was selected for the 2020 All-Star Game and named to the All-NBA First Team. He finished third in the MVP voting behind Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James.
Harden led the Rockets into the postseason, where they faced the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Semifinals. The Rockets were eliminated in five games. During the playoffs, Harden averaged 29.6 points, 7.7 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game, shooting 47.8% from the field.
The 2019-20 season solidified James Harden’s position as one of the premier talents in the NBA, as he claimed the scoring champion title and showcased his all-around skill set.
