In one of the most significant moves of the 2026 trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers have acquired 10-time All-Star guard James Harden in a blockbuster trade completed just hours before the 3 PM EST deadline. The move signals the Cavaliers' all-in push to contend for an NBA championship this season.
THE DEAL BREAKDOWN
The Cavaliers sent a package including starting guard Darius Garland, and a second round pick to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Harden. The 36-year-old veteran brings championship experience and elite playmaking to a Cavaliers team that has been searching for a true floor general.
"This is a win-now move," said Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman during a press conference shortly after the trade was announced. "James is one of the greatest offensive players in NBA history, and we believe he's the missing piece to take us to the next level."
PERFECT FIT WITH YOUNG CORE
Harden joins a Cavaliers roster featuring rising stars Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. The addition of the former MVP gives Cleveland one of the most potent offensive lineups in the league, with multiple players capable of creating their own shot and facilitating for others.
While Garland's departure leaves a significant hole, many analysts believe that Harden's veteran presence and playoff experience make the Cavaliers immediate contenders in the Eastern Conference. The pairing of Mitchell and Harden in the backcourt gives Cleveland two elite scorers and playmakers who can take over games in crunch time.