The LA Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers have agreed to a blockbuster trade centered on veteran star James Harden and young guard Darius Garland. The Clippers are sending Harden, an 11 time All Star and 2018 MVP, to Cleveland in exchange for Garland, a two time NBA All Star, along with the Cavaliers’ 2026 second round pick.
The deal came together quickly, developing over the course of less than a week. Harden last played for the Clippers on Jan. 25 against the Brooklyn Nets before traveling with the team on its road trip. He played in Utah, sat out a loss in Denver, and was downgraded to out for “personal reasons” shortly before games in Phoenix and Philadelphia. Reports of serious trade talks surfaced during that stretch, and the sides ultimately worked toward a resolution that suited both parties.
Harden effectively had veto power because of the structure of his contract and collaborated with the Clippers on his exit. For Los Angeles, which entered the season prioritizing long term flexibility, the trade brings in Garland, a 26 year old guard who can contribute immediately while also fitting into the franchise’s future plans. Garland is in the third year of a five year, $197 million contract. Harden, meanwhile, is earning $39.3 million this season, with $13.8 million of his $49.2 million salary for next year guaranteed.
For Cleveland, the move represents a clear win now push. The Cavaliers, currently 30-21, believe Harden can raise their ceiling in the Eastern Conference by pairing him with Donovan Mitchell. Harden and Mitchell are now the only teammates among the league’s small group of players averaging at least 25 points and five assists this season. Harden joins Cleveland after helping guide the Clippers out of a 6-21 start; LA has gone 17-4 since Dec. 20 to climb back into the playoff picture despite the early struggles.
Harden leaves the Clippers after a productive stint in his hometown, where he was named third team All NBA last season. Contract negotiations stalled over the summer as LA declined to offer a longer term deal, factoring in Harden’s age and the organization’s desire for flexibility with Kawhi Leonard also nearing the end of his contract. The trade marks Harden’s fifth NBA stop, following stints with Oklahoma City, Houston, Brooklyn, Philadelphia, and now Cleveland.
Garland departs Cleveland after playing a central role in the franchise’s post LeBron James rebuild. Selected in the 2019 draft, he developed into a two time All Star and enjoyed his best season in 2024-25, averaging 20.6 points and 6.7 assists while shooting 40.1 % from three on a team that won 64 games. Injuries have limited him this season, as he has not played since Jan. 14 due to a Grade 1 sprain of his right big toe, but the Clippers are betting on his health and upside as they reshape their roster.
