A nagging issue continues to trouble the Cavaliers this postseason, which is protecting the ball. Heat legend Udonis Haslem pointed fingers directly at James Harden and rained criticism on the veteran guard.

For context, the Cavs had one of their worst games protecting the ball in Game 1, giving away 19 turnovers, which led to 31 points. It ultimately fueled their 101-111 loss. 

“It's so self-inflicted wounds. One-handed passes." Haslem said after the game. "Things that I would take my son out of the game for if I was coaching him for throwing passes like that."

And, the stats back Haslem's argument.

For context, the Cavs had one of their worst games protecting the ball in Game 1, giving away 19 turnovers, which led to 31 points. It ultimately fueled their 101-111 loss. This confused Haslem as he spoke about Cleveland's strategy.

“I just continue to get off guard by the lack of a goal that is the basketball possession. The carelessness of Cleveland in the playoffs. It's just confusing to me,” he added.

Seven of the 19 turnovers made by the Cavs came from James Harden. Not only that, it led to a worrying trend as well.

In Game 2, the Cavs’ 9th playoff game, Harden recorded more turnovers than field goals.

What was more shocking for Haslem was the fact that, despite being one of the five players to play 17+ consecutive playoff seasons, Harden is still crumbling under pressure.

“Why the hell are you turning the ball over so much? Haslem asked. "You have been in the playoffs and know what it's like to be in the playoffs.”

And, James Harden took the blame on himself.

James Harden responds to the Game 1 meltdown

The Beard took responsibility for the Game 1 loss. “You look at my turnovers, a lot of them were just on me and nothing they did,” said Harden. “I’ve got to be better, and we will be better turning the basketball over.”

Out of the seven turnovers in Game 1, many were avoidable. One came through a backcourt violation, while another occurred when Harden bounced the ball on Duncan Robinson’s foot.

Harden's ball-security concerns intensified in Game 2 despite his promise to improve.

Although they reduced the total turnovers to 11 on Thursday night, Harden fumbled a bad turnover at the penultimate moment.

With around 30 seconds left on the clock, the star guard had the opportunity to cut to a one-possession game.

However, he lost the dribble, and Ausar Thompson stole the ball, which led them to lose Game 2 97-107, yet again with a 10-point difference.

With the Detroit Pistons now leading the series by 2-0, Harden will have to turn up with his best game on Sunday before it becomes too late for them.

Read more at the Air Jordan Chronicles!

Written by

Shahul Hameed

Edited by

Koushik Biswas