By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The LA Clippers have traded 11-time All-Star James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for guard Darius Garland and a second-round pick, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Harden, 36, had effective veto power due to the structure of his contract and worked with the Clippers on an exit that suited both sides. The move gives Harden a “win-now” opportunity in the Eastern Conference, while the Clippers acquire a younger, two-time All-Star in Garland, who can contribute both immediately and long term.
“I didn’t want to hold the Clippers back,” Harden told ESPN, adding that he sees “a real chance to win in the East” with Cleveland.
Harden also denied reports that he requested a trade, saying the decision was mutual and handled professionally.
For Cleveland (30–21), Harden’s arrival raises the team’s ceiling, pairing him with Donovan Mitchell to form one of the league’s most potent backcourts. Garland is in the third year of a five-year, $197 million deal, while Harden is earning $39.3 million this season, with $13.8 million guaranteed for 2026–27.