SportsFebruary 5, 2026
Blockbuster: James Harden Traded to Cavaliers in Shock Move
Blockbuster: James Harden Traded to Cavaliers in Shock Move
TL;DR: The Cleveland Cavaliers have acquired James Harden from the Clippers just hours before the 2026 trade deadline, sending Darius Garland and picks in return.
Key Points
All-In for Cleveland
The Cavaliers have officially pushed their chips into the center of the table. By swapping the younger Garland for the veteran mastery of James Harden, Cleveland is signaling they believe their window is now. Harden's elite passing is expected to unlock easy buckets for Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
The Ripple Effect
This move radically shifts the Eastern Conference power balance. With Harden running point, the Cavs now have the isolation scoring and playmaking to rival Boston and Milwaukee in a seven-game series.
Why it matters
It’s a high-risk, high-reward gamble. If Harden gels with Mitchell, the Cavs arguably have the best backcourt in the East. If not, they traded a young star for a short rental.
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