LOS ANGELES — On Tuesday afternoon at USC, Darius Garland hinted to friends that he would likely remain in Los Angeles, joining the Clippers. He was spot on. The Cavaliers traded Garland and a future second-round pick for James Harden, an 11-time All-Star.
For the deal to go through, Harden needs to forfeit most of his trade kicker. This trade marks the end of Garland’s time in Cleveland. Drafted fifth overall in 2019, he emerged as a two-time All-Star. The trade gives Harden the fresh start he’s been seeking, along with a shot at a championship.
Harden has played 44 games this season, averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds. He’s recognized as a strong player, having won the MVP award in 2018. His shooting percentage isn’t what it once was, landing at 41.9% from the field and 34.7% from beyond the arc.
Garland has faced injuries this year. After toe surgery, he missed the first seven games. Recently, he sprained his other toe, limiting him to solo workouts. In his 26 games this season, he averaged 18.0 points and 6.9 assists. However, Cleveland struggled defensively when Garland was on the court.
This trade also signals a new chapter for the Cavaliers, moving away from their previously praised Core 4—Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. The front office decided to pivot, partially due to Mitchell’s short contract and high expectations for the team.
Harden’s arrival could lessen some of the pressure on Mitchell, who has been largely responsible for playmaking. This change also brings more size to the backcourt, addressing the team’s defensive woes with the smaller Mitchell-Garland pairing. In fact, with Garland on the floor, Cleveland had a 117.7 defensive rating, among the lowest in the league.
Historically, trades like this one can reshape a team’s future. For instance, when the Cavaliers acquired LeBron James in 2014, it marked the beginning of a championship era. Now, with Harden’s experience—173 playoff games and a Finals appearance in 2012—the Cavaliers aim for similar success.
Cleveland isn’t done yet. With the trade deadline looming, they’re exploring more roster changes, including moving backup Lonzo Ball. Recent moves, like trading De’Andre Hunter for Dennis Schröder, are part of a strategy to revamp the team.
As the Cavaliers gear up for the second half of the season, fans are eager to see how these changes play out. They currently sit with a record of 30-21, having won eight of their last ten games.
For more insights into team performance and trades, you can check the latest updates from sources like ESPN and Basketball Reference.
