Harden Expected to Make Greater Impact in Game 2

Originally Published: Apr 20, 2010 6:15 PM CDT

Stephany Speck
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

SANTA MONICA, California -- The Oklahoma City Thunder was attentive and upbeat at in its workout at Santa Monica High School Tuesday.

Scott Brooks surprised the media when he used the practice time to show his young team new plays just hours before game time, trying to find a way for Kevin Durant to score.

James Harden, who averages 9.9 points per game and 3.2 rebounds, was held scoreless in Game One. Brooks said he expects more from the shooting guard.

“He’s just got come in and make an impact. James understands that. He doesn’t feel like he did that last game, but I have a lot of confidence in him,” Brooks said. “It’s not just making shots. It’s doing whatever it takes to help your team win.”

Brooks stressed the concept to other players as well.

“With all of our guys, it’s not about scoring,” Brooks said. “It’s about doing whatever it takes to help your team win.”

Harden said he’ll be looking forward to being a bigger factor in Tuesday’s game, which tips off at 9:30 p.m.

I need to be more aggressive and not be so relaxed and lackadaisical,” Harden said.

“Go out there and attack, attack, attack.”