Harden either cannot or will not play defense.

[Thorny]

He will not close out perimeter players. He is quickly becoming a defensive liability equal to or greater than his offensive prowess. This is especially evident on the road where his offensive numbers seem to go down dramatically. I know it's not just him but he the leader in the "Complete lack of defensive effort" club.

There, I said it.

Talk amongst yourselves.

[Anonymous]

His energy is definitely not the same on the road - this is probably true for everyone.

However, he seems to show it more than anyone else.

[Laramie]

Harden's height doesn't permit him to close out on perimeter shooters. If he moves out to far on the perimeter, the shooter can fake and dribble around him which breaks down the first line of defense; then it becomes Perkins or Ibaka's job to block or foul. I think that Scott Brooks can live with this concern. Three pointers are a high percentage shot.

We simply have to continue to cut down on our turnovers.

[slimjimzv]

I'm not sure why Harden collapses so hard on the drive. I don't recall many instances where he's affected the shot anyway. With Ibaka, Perk or Collison down there, Harden needs to stay on his man and eliminate the kick-out.