James Harden's performance in the playoffs has sparked criticism despite support from Los Angeles Clippers president Lawrence Frank. Harden played 79 games this season, averaging 22.8 points and ranking fifth in the NBA for assists. Frank noted Harden's leadership during Kawhi Leonard's absence but failed to address his disappointing postseason average of 18.7 points over the series against the Denver Nuggets. Though Harden's player option looms, Frank expressed a desire to negotiate an extension, highlighting Harden's importance to the team's plans moving forward.

The Clippers boasted a 50-32 record, securing the fifth seed in the Western Conference, but suffered an embarrassing playoff exit. Frank expressed pride in the team's regular-season success while acknowledging the need for improvements. With a first-round draft pick and various contract situations to navigate, the Clippers aim to balance current competitiveness with future strategies.