The Brooklyn Nets have played just seven games with their Big 3. Tonight, James Harden was the only one on the court. But that was enough for the Nets, as they beat the Pacers by nine points.

Harden had yet another point game, but this time, he took it up a notch, as he added a triple-double with that. He finished the game with 40 points, 10 rebounds, and 15 assists.

It was also the 100th 40 point-game of Harden’s career, which is the fourth-most in NBA history. He only trails Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and Wilt Chamberlain now.

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That is an exclusive and elite club to be a part of, so Harden will know he is on the right track. By the end of his career, he will easily finish as the #3 on this list, and might also make a push to overtake Jordan. It is also universally established that one cannot surpass Wilt’s mind-boggling numbers.

Is James Harden an MVP front-runner?

If he wasn’t, it’s time he is. Tonight’s performance was another reminder that Big 3 or not, Harden can do it by himself too.

The Pacers are the #6 seed in the East and are a respectable and gritty team. To demolish them while leading the team out of a 15 point deficit is a big deal. Initial struggles would have made fans worry about Kyrie Irving’s absence. But by the end of the game, Harden’s performance would have taken them off their seats.

Tonight was also Harden’s 11th triple-double of the season. While the rebounds could be termed as stat padding at times, the scoring and the playmaking is pure skill, which sets him apart.

If the Nets finish as the number one seed in the East, it will be very hard to overlook Harden in the MVP voting. The only argument against him would be he had two other MVP caliber players alongside. But he still deserves a lot of credit for where the Nets are right now. After tonight’s win, they are now tied with the 76ers for the number one seed.

They face the Magic in the next game which should be an easy one for them. Then they face the Wizards, who have already beaten them twice. The Nets will be keen to avoid a sweep in what will be a reunion game for Russell Westbrook and James Harden.