The Los Angeles Clippers traded veteran guard James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for young All-Star Darius Garland and a 2026 second-round pick, marking a surprising blockbuster ahead of the NBA trade deadline. This move sees the Clippers get younger in the backcourt while the Cavaliers aim to bolster their scoring with Harden's experience alongside Donovan Mitchell. The trade, executed on February 3, 2026, has drawn mixed reactions regarding its long-term impact on both teams.
The NBA trade market ignited early on February 3, 2026, when the Los Angeles Clippers sent 36-year-old James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for 26-year-old Darius Garland and a second-round pick in the 2026 draft. Harden, a 10-time All-Star averaging 25.4 points and 8.1 assists this season, brings playoff experience and reliability to Cleveland, which has struggled with bench scoring when Donovan Mitchell rests. Garland, a two-time All-Star, has been limited by toe injuries, missing half the season, prompting the Cavaliers to prioritize Harden's durability.
Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank praised Harden's contributions over two-and-a-half seasons, noting his leadership and competitiveness, but emphasized the need to build younger around Kawhi Leonard. "We are trying to get younger while continuing to win, and Darius allows us to do both," Frank said. Cavaliers GM Koby Altman highlighted Harden's elite playmaking, stating, "James Harden has cemented himself as an all-time great... His presence will elevate our offense."
Analysts gave the Cavaliers a C+ to B grade, citing health benefits but questioning the fit with Mitchell due to overlapping styles and defensive concerns. The Clippers earned a B-, valued for acquiring a prime talent 10 years younger, though Garland's contract and injury history pose risks. This deal, part of broader deadline chaos including Jaren Jackson Jr. to Utah, positions Cleveland for a deeper playoff run in the open East while the Clippers focus on sustainability.
