Former Nets Consultant Steve Clifford Defends Big 3 as Successful Experiment

Former Nets defensive consultant Steve Clifford pushed back on the notion that putting Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden on the same team was a bad idea. Clifford, now head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, said the trio worked hard and had a great attitude. Clifford joined the Nets staff after the team almost defeated the Milwaukee Bucks in the playoffs. The Nets would have won the title if Durant’s foot was behind the three-point line, according to Clifford. Durant, Irving and Harden were dominant together when healthy. Injuries and vaccination issues prevented the trio from playing together consistently. Despite the challenges, Clifford said Durant brought out the best in his teammates and cared deeply about how the team played. Durant would always lead the defensive drills in practice, setting an example for his teammates.