Clippers Trade James Harden to Cavaliers for Darius Garland
LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Clippers are trading James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Darius Garland and a second-round pick, sources told ESPN. The trade was finalized on Tuesday, .
Both teams aim to benefit from the move. The Clippers and Harden worked through his exit over the past few days, resulting in what’s being described as a beneficial outcome for both sides. For Harden, it’s a “win now” opportunity, given his current level of play at age 36. For the Clippers, the acquisition of the 26-year-old, two-time All-Star Garland offers potential for both immediate impact and future development.
The Cavaliers believe the addition of Harden has the potential to elevate their ceiling as they contend for a title in the Eastern Conference. The trade aligns two high-powered offensive players in Harden and Donovan Mitchell.
Harden sat out the Phoenix game on Sunday and Monday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers for personal reasons, according to the team. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue stated before Monday’s game that Harden was at his home in Phoenix.
In his 17th season, Harden continues to be a significant offensive force, averaging 25.4 points and 8.1 assists. He’s averaging more points per game than in his last full season in Houston and has been a catalyst for the Clippers’ recent improvement after a 6-21 start.
The Clippers acquired Harden in a trade with the 76ers in 2023. He helped lead the team to two playoff appearances, though L.A. Lost in the first round both times. Harden signed a two-year, $81.5 million deal with the Clippers over the summer, which includes a $42 million player option for next season.
Harden has been remarkably durable recently, appearing in over 70 games in each of the last two seasons and on track to reach that threshold again this season. The 11-time All-Star and former MVP is seeking a championship ring to complete his resume.
Garland, averaging 18.0 points and 6.9 assists in 26 games this season, is currently dealing with a right foot injury and hasn’t played since .
Garland was drafted by Cleveland in 2019 and played a key role in the team’s rebuild following LeBron James’ departure. He blossomed into a two-time All-Star with the Cavaliers. However, injuries and playoff disappointments led Cleveland to move on from Garland.
Garland has been limited to 26 games this season due to separate toe injuries, the most recent being diagnosed as a Grade 1 sprain of his right big toe.
His best season came last year, when he averaged 20.6 points and 6.7 assists while shooting 40% from three-point range. He earned All-Star honors and helped lead the Cavaliers to a 64-win season and the league’s best offense.
Garland is in the midst of a five-year extension he signed in 2022, with two years and nearly $90 million remaining on the deal.
