James Harden Records 22 Points in Game 1 Loss to Pistons

James Harden tallied 22 points (6-15 FG, 1-7 3Pt, 9-9 FT), eight rebounds, seven assists, two blocks, and one steal in 35 minutes during Tuesday's 111-101 Game 1 loss to the Pistons. Following the defeat, reports indicated that Harden and teammate Donovan Mitchell need to improve their production. Prior to his trade to the Cavaliers, it was revealed that Harden's representatives had gauged interest regarding a potential return to a former franchise.