Cavs Trade All-Star Guard Darius Garland to Clippers

Garland thanks Cleveland fans after being dealt for James Harden in blockbuster deal

Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:23pm

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The Cleveland Cavaliers have traded two-time All-Star guard Darius Garland to the Los Angeles Clippers, along with a 2026 second-round pick, in exchange for future Hall of Famer James Harden. Garland, who was a key part of the Cavs' rise to playoff contention in recent years, expressed gratitude to the city, organization, and fans in Cleveland on his way out.

Why it matters

The trade marks the end of an era for the Cavaliers, who had built their team around Garland and fellow All-Star Donovan Mitchell. Harden's arrival in Cleveland now pairs him with Mitchell to form one of the league's most dynamic scoring backcourts, but the departure of Garland, a homegrown talent, will be felt by the team and its fans.

The details

Garland, the fifth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, made two All-Star teams in his four seasons with the Cavaliers. He was a central figure in the team's transformation from a rebuilding squad to a playoff contender in the Eastern Conference. In the blockbuster trade, the Cavs are sending Garland and a 2026 second-round pick to the Clippers in exchange for Harden, a 10-time All-Star and former NBA MVP.

  • Garland was drafted by the Cavaliers in 2019.
  • Garland made two All-Star teams during his four seasons in Cleveland.

The players

Darius Garland

A two-time NBA All-Star guard who was a key part of the Cavaliers' rise to playoff contention in recent years.

James Harden

A 10-time NBA All-Star and former league MVP who is now joining the Cavaliers in a blockbuster trade.

Donovan Mitchell

An All-Star guard who will now team up with Harden to form one of the league's most dynamic scoring backcourts in Cleveland.

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What they’re saying

“I'll never forget the night I was drafted to Cleveland back in 2019 and everything I've gained since. This city taught me more than I could've imagined. To the coaches, staff, front office, the Gilbert family, my teammates and the fans — thank you for the love and support. Cleveland will always be a second home, and I'll carry these memories with me forever.”

— Darius Garland (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The Cavaliers will now look to integrate Harden into their lineup alongside Donovan Mitchell, as they aim to build a championship contender in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

The trade of Darius Garland, a homegrown talent who helped the Cavaliers return to relevance, marks the end of an era in Cleveland. However, the arrival of James Harden gives the team a new superstar duo with Donovan Mitchell as they pursue an NBA title.