James Harden Joins Cavaliers; Clippers Acquire Darius Garland: Sources

The NBA landscape has recently changed with a significant trade between the LA Clippers and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The trade centers around point guards James Harden and Darius Garland, according to reports from league sources.

Trade Details

• Players Involved:
  • James Harden joins the Cavaliers.
  • Darius Garland moves to the Clippers.
• Additional Assets: The Clippers will also receive a second-round pick from the Cavaliers in 2026.
• Duration: The trade was finalized in less than a week.

James Harden’s Impact on the Cavaliers

Harden, a former MVP and multiple All-NBA selections, enhances Cleveland’s backcourt alongside Donovan Mitchell, a 2026 All-Star shooting guard. This strategic move aims to strengthen the Cavaliers’ offensive capabilities and improve their chances of avoiding the Play-In Tournament.

Harden is known for being one of the league’s top isolation scorers and skilled 3-point shooters. At 36 years old, he has remained durable with only seven missed games due to injury since joining the Clippers in 2023. His arrival in Cleveland represents an opportunity to secure a new contract while elevating the team’s overall performance.

Darius Garland’s Transfer to the Clippers

The Clippers acquire Garland, a promising talent and former All-Star who turned 26 last month. He was the fifth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft and has been a vital component of Cleveland’s high-scoring offense.

• Current Performance:
  • Average: 18.0 points per game
  • Assists: 6.9 per game
  • Shooting: 36% from 3-point range
  • Free-Throw Percentage: 86.1%
• Injury Status: Garland has faced challenges this season, missing games due to a left-foot injury and a right great toe sprain. He has only played 26 games this season.

Cleveland’s Recent Roster Changes

In addition to acquiring Harden, Cleveland recently reshaped its roster by trading De’Andre Hunter to Sacramento and sending draft picks to Chicago. This maneuver brought in Dennis Schröder, Keon Ellis, and two-way forward Emanuel Miller, while waiving Luke Travers.

Overall, this trade signifies a bold move by the Cavaliers, aiming to enhance their playoff prospects while providing the Clippers with a young foundational player in Darius Garland.