James Harden makes Cleveland debut with Cavaliers

All-Star guard plays first game with new team after trade from Rockets

Feb. 11, 2026 at 10:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Donovan Mitchell said the Cleveland Cavaliers are "just hooping on vibes" since acquiring All-Star guard James Harden. Harden is set to play his first game in Cleveland as a Cavs player on Wednesday night after being traded from the Houston Rockets.

Why it matters

The addition of Harden to the Cavaliers' roster is expected to provide a major boost to the team's offense and playoff aspirations. Harden is a perennial All-Star and one of the NBA's most prolific scorers, which should complement the Cavs' existing star players like Mitchell.

The details

Harden was traded to the Cavaliers in a blockbuster deal earlier this month, leaving the Houston Rockets after nearly a decade with the franchise. The Cavs are hoping Harden's scoring ability and playmaking skills will help take the team to the next level in the Eastern Conference.

  • Harden is set to play his first game with the Cavaliers on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

James Harden

An All-Star guard who was recently traded from the Houston Rockets to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Donovan Mitchell

A star player for the Cleveland Cavaliers who has expressed excitement about playing with Harden.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The vibes will finally come to Rocket Arena with Harden set to play his first game in Cleveland as a Cavs player on Wednesday night.”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers player (The Independent)

What’s next

Fans will be eager to see how Harden meshes with the Cavaliers' existing roster and whether the team can make a deep playoff run with the addition of the All-Star guard.

The takeaway

The acquisition of James Harden is a major move for the Cleveland Cavaliers as they look to bolster their roster and compete for an NBA championship. Harden's scoring prowess and playmaking abilities should provide a significant boost to the team's offense.