Cavs & Clippers Blockbuster trade sends Darius Garland to LA for James Harden

James Harden is Cleveland-bound.
Darius Garland and the Cavs’ 2nd-round pick are headed out West.

But that wasn’t the only move…

The Cavs also swung a deal with Sacramento, sending De’Andre Hunter to the Kings in exchange for Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis.

What does all this mean?

One thing is clear: The Cleveland Cavaliers are ALL IN for 2026.

James Harden is having one of his best seasons — statistically and health-wise. The 6’5” guard is putting up impressive numbers:

PTS: 25.4

REB: 4.9

AST: 8.1

FG%: 41.9

At 36 years old, Harden has been in the league since 2009 and has started every game this season. He looks like he’s found the fountain of youth.

Now let’s be real…

In the past, Harden has been criticized for coming up short in big playoff moments. Fair or not, he’s carried that label for years.

But this version feels different.

He’s smarter. More focused. More locked in on winning than chasing numbers. And he doesn’t have to carry everything anymore.

Meanwhile, Darius Garland’s health — especially his recurring toe injuries — has quietly limited him over the past few seasons.

For a smaller guard who relies on quickness, those injuries matter. They affect balance, explosiveness, and consistency.

And it shows in his 2025–26 numbers:

Garland (2025–26):
PTS: 18.0
REB: 2.4
AST: 6.9
FG%: 45.1

When healthy, Garland is special. No doubt.
But he hasn’t been able to stay at 100% consistently.

Because of that, the small backcourt of Mitchell and Garland never fully reached its ceiling — especially in the playoffs.

Harden brings experience, durability, and playoff pedigree.

16 playoff appearances.
NBA Finals trip in 2012.
Years of high-pressure basketball.

With time running out, he understands:

It’s go time.

This may be his last real shot at a ring — and that kind of urgency is dangerous.

Add in Dennis Schröder’s veteran leadership, Keon Ellis’ defense, and the core of Mitchell, Mobley, and Allen…

And suddenly, Cleveland looks deeper, tougher, and more built for postseason basketball.

This isn’t about tomorrow.
This is about RIGHT NOW, and only time will tell if Koby Altman made the right decision, as he has compiled almost 30 trades since joining the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

 

Ian Cunningham 

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