Criticizing Kobe (Fair or unfair): A matter of winning?

Kobe’s shooting (both volume and efficiency) has been a topic of debate in recent forums as well as in the media. He leads the league in shot attempts per game and is only shooting ~38% from the field. One can argue he has to shoot that much because the team is depleted of talent and lacks anyone that can create their own shot (either off the dribble or in the post).  I feel most of the criticism is fueled by the Lakers being 1-9 and going nowhere fast (and the fact that there are those that simply just dislike Kobe no matter what he does). If they were winning more despite him shooting ~24 times per game and at a career low 38%, would the same level of criticism be there?

 

I ask this because I haven’t heard any criticism for James Harden this year (who most people on this site would say is currently the best 2 guard in the league). His shot selection has been highly questionable at times and is only shooting 37%. Granted he doesn’t take as many shots as Kobe… but then again he shouldn’t have to, he has much better players around him (which is reflected in his assists/game) and they aren’t usually trailing in games where he needs to try and bring them back. I guess “winning cures all”…..and makes people forget about poor shooting.