James Harden has spoken about being more aggressive in games with Chris Paul and Eric Gordon injured. That has translated into more effective drives to the basket.
Without two ball-handlers and binge shooters available, Harden has taken on their loads to flourish.
"Whether it's taking more shots, taking it to the rim or making an assist play, just being more aggressive," Harden said of his recent mentality.
Paul went out with a hamstring strain on Dec. 20. In the next four games without Paul, Harden – who already had led the league in drives to the basket – increased his drives per game from 18.