This idea that one player "tricks and baits" and another "is too quick" all ultimately plays out in the numbers. It is the same argument that was made against Tim Duncan early in his career. The claim that his performance and ability some how should be tempered because he doesn't jump or run or move like other players. At the time Duncan was even viewed as a choker by many people. It all was false. Jerry West went through the same crap when he played. As far as impact on the court and circumstance I would compare West to Harden. Because West played for the Lakers everyone assumes he won 4-5 titles. He won a single title late in his career and he was roundly criticized for his lack of winning.