James Harden will play in Game 3 despite eye injury

James Harden suffered a gruesome injury during Game 2 between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets. The reigning MVP was hit in the face by a rogue hand from Draymond Green, and suffered cuts on both of his eyes.

The impact was hard enough that Harden’s eyelid began bleeding.

Harden missed about a quarter of game time before returning. And while he finished out the contest, he was visibly in pain, struggling to see, and uncomfortable with the brightness in the arena. His eyes were also bright red.

A few days have passed, and while Harden’s vision and pain is much better, the injury is still lingering.

Furthermore, it’s visibly apparent that Harden’s eye is far from 100%.

Not surprisingly, the Rockets have done everything they can to get their franchise player healthy before Saturday’s Game 3 in Houston. The seven-time All-Star went directly to an eye doctor once the team returned home.

The doctor diagnosed Harden with a contusion, and a cut on the inside of his eyelid. Fun stuff.

Harden certainly showed his toughness by returning to Tuesday’s game. And that toughness was on display when asked whether or not he’ll play in Game 3.

Hopefully the star has normal vision on Saturday, so that we can be treated to a fully healthy playoff game.