Harden compiled 26 points (6-18 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 11-12 FT), 15 assists, seven rebounds and two steals across 37 minutes in Sunday's 123-117 preseason win over the Pelicans.

EDGE Analysis

With Patrick Beverley (knee) still sidelined, Harden made the start at point guard and saw extended minutes as both teams made a concerted effort to field their best lineups for the Shanghai, China crowd in the exhibition game. Harden certainly looked the part of a capable playmaker in this one, as he was able to post a gaudy assist total while still getting to the free-throw line at his usual high rate. He wasn't without his warts, however, shooting just 33.3 percent from the field while turning the ball over eight times. Harden's turnover problems won't go away as he assumes more ball-handling responsibilities during his first season in coach Mike D'Antoni's up-tempo system, but among guards, only the Thunder's Russell Westbrook can rival the huge numbers he'll post in other categories. Harden looks like a great first-round building block in just about every format, and there could be a case for him to go No. 1 overall in eight-category leagues where turnovers are excluded.