NEW YORK – James Harden will make his debut with the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night against the Orlando Magic.
Harden, who was negotiated with Brooklyn by the Houston Rockets as part of a four-team deal earlier this week, will start with the Nets, said coach Steve Nash. It will be Harden’s first action on the court with the team.
On Friday, James was ineligible to practice with the Nets because all the players involved in the switch had not passed the physical exams.
“I think everyone is excited,” said Nash before the game. “We welcome one of the best players in the game on our team, so the atmosphere is great. This is a moving target that we have to try to incorporate as we go here and learn on the spot, adapt and try to consolidate. “
Harden will have no minute restrictions. Nash said the team will use a “see as we go” approach to Harden’s playing time.
“[He is] more or less a complete attempt, “said Nash.” But we don’t want to run out of batteries for our new Christmas present anytime soon.
Harden has averaged 24.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 10.4 assists per game this season.