The Clippers plan to reduce the workload for 36-year-old Harden! Coach Lue already has a clear strategy, and Harden's own stance has been revealed.

On October 1st Beijing time, Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue told reporters that the team aims to lessen Harden's workload in the 2025-26 season. Lue stated, "We don’t want him running 60 pick-and-rolls every game. He was exhausted in the final weeks last season. That’s on us." It is understood that reducing Harden’s workload means cutting down his minutes, ball-handling, and shot attempts.

According to NBA official data, Harden played 79 regular-season games last year, averaging over 35 minutes per game with a usage rate of 28.6%, ranking first among all Clippers players.

During Leonard’s absence, Harden was especially vital to the Clippers. Last season, Leonard played only 37 games due to various injuries, including knee issues. Leonard’s health is expected to improve this season, and with veterans like Beal and Paul joining during the offseason, it could mean the Clippers won’t have to rely on Harden as heavily in his 36th year.

Last season, Harden shot 42% on catch-and-shoot three-pointers, attempting 1.5 per game. The Clippers may capitalize on this efficiency by having Leonard and others take on more ball-handling duties while giving Harden more catch-and-shoot opportunities next season.

However, adjusting Harden’s workload doesn’t necessarily mean the veteran, who missed only three games in the 2024-25 season, will play fewer games next season.

According to reports from the Clippers beat writer Murray, Tyronn Lue said he has told Harden he doesn’t need to play all 79 games this season, but Harden “won’t listen.”

The Clippers will open their 2025-26 preseason at home against the Denver Nuggets on October 13th, and their regular-season opener will be against the Utah Jazz on October 23rd. Will Harden truly get a reduced workload? We’ll have to wait and see.