NEW YORK – James Harden will make his debut with the Brooklyn Nets against the Orlando Magic on Saturday night.
Harden, who was traded to Brooklyn earlier this week as part of a four-team deal, will start for the Nets, said coach Steve Nash. It will be Harden’s first court action with the team.
On Friday, James was ineligible to practice with the Nets because all the players involved in the trade had failed their physical exams.
“I think everyone is excited,” said Nash before the game. “We welcome one of the best players in the game to 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 fly, adapt and try jell. “
Harden will not be on a minute limit. Nash said the team will use a “see as we go” approach to Harden’s playing time.
“[He is] “More or less a full house,” said Nash. “But we don’t want to drain the batteries of our new Christmas present so early.”
Harden has scored an average of 24.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 10.4 assists per game this season.