NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 15: James Harden of the Brooklyn Nets warms up before game 5 of the Eastern Conference second round against the Milwaukee Bucks at Barclays Center on June 15, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Good news has arrived for the Brooklyn Nets, as James Harden will test his hamstring injury and play in Game 5.
While it looked like the Brooklyn Nets were going to be without both Kyrie Irving and James Harden on Tuesday night to face the Milwaukee Bucks, that’s not going to be the case. Irving will sit with his ankle injury, but it’s been announced that Harden will play despite battling a bum hamstring.
With the series tied at 2-2, after Brooklyn jumped out to a 2-0 lead, Game 5 is of course massive for both teams. Knowing this, Harden is ready to fight through the pain to help his team out.
NBA Playoffs: James Harden to play in Game 5 against Milwaukee Bucks
With Harden all set to make his way to the hardwood on Tuesday night, this is of course incredible for head coach Steve Nash. At the same time, we’ll be sure to follow closely and see if Harden is on a minutes restriction or not.
The absolute last thing Nash and Co. want to see is Harden further injure himself and potentially have to miss an extended period of time. With Brooklyn among the favorites to win the NBA Finals this season, they’ll need Harden the rest of the way in order to make that happen.
When Harden is healthy, he’s without question one of the best players in the game. Him making plays next to Kevin Durant and Irving (when he’s also at full health) is special to see. Come Game 5, Harden will look to give the fans on hand at the Barclays Center plenty of reasons to cheer, while also hoping to give his side a 3-2 series lead once the final whistle arrives. We’ll see if Harden and Durant can get the job done.