NBA Blockbuster: Clippers Trade James Harden to Cavaliers for Darius Garland

The LA Clippers have agreed to trade guard James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for guard Darius Garland and a future second-round draft pick. The deal is awaiting official completion and league approval. This transaction marks Harden's fifth team in the NBA and positions him to join Donovan Mitchell in the Cavaliers' backcourt, while Garland's move to the Clippers aligns with the team's pursuit of immediate and future benefits.

Trade Details

The agreement involves the LA Clippers sending James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In return, the Clippers are set to receive Darius Garland and a future second-round draft pick from the Cavaliers. The finalized trade is pending official league approval.

Player Profiles

• Age: 36 years old.
• Current Season Performance: He is currently averaging 25.4 points per game, which is his highest scoring average since the 2019-20 season.
• Contract Information: Harden's current season salary is $39.3 million. Of his $49.2 million salary for next season, $13.8 million is guaranteed. He had previously opted out of the final year of a contract last summer to sign a new deal valued at $81.5 million covering the current season and the 2026-27 campaign, with the 2026-27 season being a player option.
• Career Context: Harden has previously played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, and Philadelphia 76ers, joining the Clippers in 2023. He made the All-NBA team in the 2019-20 season, averaging 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists.
• Pre-Trade Context: Harden, who held trade veto power, had sought a longer-term contract from the Clippers after an All-NBA season, but the team reportedly declined, citing his age and a focus on long-term flexibility. He was absent from recent games due to "personal reasons" as trade discussions progressed. Prior to the trade, he contributed to the Clippers' record of 17 wins and 4 losses since December 20, following an initial 6-21 start to the season.

James Harden's current season average of 25.4 points per game marks his highest scoring output since the 2019-20 season.

• Age: 26 years old.
• Current Season Performance: A two-time All-Star, Garland has averaged 18.0 points and 6.9 assists in 26 games this season. His playing time has been limited by toe injuries.
• Contract Information: He is currently in the third year of a five-year, $197 million contract.
• Career Context: Drafted in 2019, Garland was a key component in Cleveland's team rebuilding efforts.
• Pre-Trade Context: Recent injuries and playoff outcomes were cited as factors contributing to Cleveland's decision to trade him.

A two-time All-Star, Darius Garland has averaged 18.0 points and 6.9 assists in 26 games this season, despite being limited by toe injuries.

Team Implications

The Cavaliers, holding a 30-21 record at the time of the trade, acquired Harden with the stated aim of elevating their contention for an Eastern Conference title. The move pairs Harden with star guard Donovan Mitchell, forming a backcourt duo where both players have averaged at least 25 points and five assists this season.

Following the trade report, the Cavaliers' odds to win the NBA title shifted from 22-1 to 12-1 at DraftKings Sportsbook, placing them with the third-shortest title odds alongside the New York Knicks.

The Clippers' acquisition of Garland is intended to benefit the team in both the immediate and future terms. The move is seen as a potential focus on the team's future development.