NBA Star Power Index: Joel Embiid continues tear; LeBron steals show; James Harden tiring of time with Nets?
CBSN
Also, Jayson Tatum had quite a day against the Wizards
Welcome back to NBA Star Power Index: A weekly gauge of the players getting the most buzz around the league. Inclusion on this list isn't necessarily a good thing -- it simply means you're capturing the NBA world's attention. This is also not a ranking. The players listed are in no particular order. This column will run every week throughout the regular season. Harden has recently informed several confidants—including former teammates and coaches—of his interest in exploring other opportunities outside of Brooklyn this summer, league sources told Bleacher Report.
Anthony Davis made his return on Tuesday after a five-week absence nursing a sprained MCL, and his defense and mere presence made a noticeable impact on the Lakers, who defeated the Brooklyn Nets, sans Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, 106-96. Harden has been vocal to Nets figures and close contacts alike about his frustrations regarding Kyrie Irving's part-time playing status. A recent injury to Kevin Durant has exacerbated the issue, leaving Harden to shoulder the majority of the offensive burden during Brooklyn home games.
But once again, this game was all about LeBron James, who finished with 33 points, seven rebounds, six assists, three steals and two blocks on 14-of-21 shooting. Two of those steals came on back-to-back possessions midway through the fourth quarter as the Lakers took a game that was perhaps about to get interesting and stretched the lead to 15. His new city could also be an issue. According to multiple sources, Harden has not enjoyed living in Brooklyn, compared to his days as a central Houston magnate. Outside of the change in climate, the chasm between state taxes in New York versus Texas is quite obvious as well.