James Harden averages 25.4 points per game for the Los Angeles Clippers this season
In one of the most impactful deals of the 2026 NBA trade season, the Cleveland Cavaliers have acquired 11-time All-Star James Harden from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for point guard Darius Garland and a future second-round draft pick.
The trade, first reported Tuesday and confirmed by multiple outlets, arrives with the NBA trade deadline looming on Thursday, injecting fresh energy into Cleveland’s playoff push in the competitive Eastern Conference.
Harden, 36, is enjoying one of his best scoring seasons in years, averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds across 44 game his most consistent offensive output since his heyday in 2019-20. His passing, veteran leadership and offensive versatility make him an intriguing fit alongside Donovan Mitchell as the Cavaliers seek deeper postseason success.
Cleveland, which entered the season near the top of the Eastern standings, has now placed a clear win-now bet on Harden’s experience elevating its championship aspirations. Harden’s departure from the Clippers comes after three seasons in Southern California, where he helped the club climb from a 6-21 start to stay in play-in contention this year.
For the Clippers, the return of Garland a two-time All-Star provides a younger, long-term building block around whom they can shape a future core. Garland, 26, has battled injuries this season but remains under a larger contract with potential upside as the franchise looks toward sustained competitiveness.
Garland’s availability sidelined recently due to a toe sprain — and his contract profile were key factors driving Cleveland’s willingness to part with him in the deal, with league sources saying the Cavaliers prioritized the opportunity to acquire Harden’s skill set before Thursday’s 3 p.m. ET deadline.
The swap marks Harden’s sixth NBA franchise in a 17-year career that has included stops with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers and Clippers. Despite a prolific individual résumé including an NBA MVP title — the 36-year-old star still chases his first NBA championship.
