Doc Rivers appreciates what James Harden is doing for the Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cleveland Cavaliers have a loaded roster, especially with the addition of James Harden at the trade deadline. They have one of the most talented backcourts in the league with Harden and Donovan Mitchell, which is yet another example of Harden thriving with a talented guard.

During his Philadelphia 76ers days under Doc Rivers, he played alongside another star guard, Tyrese Maxey. This has been a trend throughout his career, and it was yet another stellar period for Harden.

Rivers recalls his time coaching James Harden

Harden is now one of the leaders for the Cavaliers. They are en route to being a contender this season, as they have moved from Darius Garland to Harden.

It will be challenging to stand out in a loaded Eastern Conference, but this might be Harden's best chance to reach the NBA Finals. He once did during his sixth man days with the Oklahoma City Thunder, but this might be his best chance since his Houston Rockets days.

MORE: James Harden wants more from Evan Mobley's performances

During his 76ers stint, Harden was a major player in Rivers' system. He was a superb playmaker for the team, but it did not work out in the end. Despite that, Rivers has good memories coaching the former MVP.

"I love the way he’s playing. That first half of the year in Philly, we were the best team in the NBA. He makes your team really good. I don’t think people realize how good of a passer he is. Everyone is scared of him," Rivers said about Harden's playmaking.

Since the Cavaliers have him moving forward, they will be expecting that he can be a game-changer. With Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen alongside him, the Cavaliers have a good chance of being a title contender.

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