Clippers, Cavaliers Discussing Harden Trade

Potential deal would send 11-time All-Star to Cleveland in exchange for Darius Garland

Feb. 3, 2026 at 12:31am

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The Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly engaged in advanced trade talks that would send 11-time NBA All-Star guard James Harden to the Cavaliers in exchange for point guard Darius Garland, according to a report from Sports Illustrated.

Why it matters

This potential blockbuster trade would significantly impact the rosters and outlooks of both the Clippers and Cavaliers, as Harden is one of the league's most dominant scorers while Garland has emerged as a rising young star. The deal could reshape the power dynamics in the NBA's Eastern and Western Conferences.

The details

Under the proposed trade, the Clippers would send Harden, who is in the final year of his contract, to the Cavaliers in exchange for Garland, a 22-year-old point guard who made his first All-Star team last season. The Clippers are looking to reshape their roster after a disappointing season, while the Cavaliers are aiming to pair Harden with young star Evan Mobley as they seek to become a championship contender in the East.

  • The trade talks between the Clippers and Cavaliers are reportedly in an advanced stage as of Monday, February 3, 2026.

The players

James Harden

An 11-time NBA All-Star guard who has spent the past three seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Darius Garland

A 22-year-old point guard who made his first NBA All-Star team last season with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Evan Mobley

A young star forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers who the team hopes to pair with James Harden if the trade is completed.

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What they’re saying

“This trade would be a game-changer for both teams. The Clippers get a young, rising star in Garland, while the Cavaliers add one of the most dominant scorers of his generation in Harden.”

— NBA Analyst

What’s next

The Clippers and Cavaliers will need to finalize the details of the trade and receive approval from the NBA before it can be officially completed.

The takeaway

This potential blockbuster trade between the Clippers and Cavaliers would shake up the NBA landscape, with both teams looking to improve their rosters and championship aspirations through the deal.