OAKLAND — In the closing stages of arguably the biggest game of the year, James Harden hit one of the most difficult shots you’ll ever see, avoiding the clutches of Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, two of the best defenders the league has to offer.



Oracle Arena, one of the loudest NBA arenas, if not the loudest, was stunned. P.J. Tucker, Gerald Green and Danuel House were overcome with emotion, grabbing Harden and screaming. “I don’t know where it ranks, but I’m just happy to come away with a win,” Harden said after the 135-134 overtime thriller.



Nevermind that Harden had 44 points to go along with 10 rebounds and 15 assists.



Nevermind that this was his fifth straight 40-point game.



Nevermind that this was his eighth consecutive game of 35 points or more.



The job wasn’t finished yet, and he let his teammates know, holding up one finger after the shot to remind them there was still...