Cavs Trade for James Harden Pays Off in Debut

Harden's highlight-reel pass shows why Cleveland made the deal for the superstar guard.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 1:55am

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In his home debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers, James Harden made just 4 field goal attempts but dazzled with a behind-the-back bounce pass to set up an easy dunk, showcasing the playmaking ability that made him worth trading for in the eyes of the Cavs organization.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers gave up star point guard Darius Garland to acquire Harden, a move that was met with some skepticism. But Harden's unselfish play and elite passing skills on display in his first game prove he can be the missing piece to help Cleveland contend for an NBA championship.

The details

With the Cavaliers leading comfortably in the fourth quarter, Harden found Jaylon Tyson cutting to the basket and delivered a highlight-reel, behind-the-back bounce pass to set up an easy dunk. The play demonstrated Harden's elite vision and passing ability, traits that make him one of the NBA's premier playmakers despite his reputation as a high-volume scorer.

  • Harden made his home debut for the Cavaliers on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

James Harden

An All-NBA caliber guard who was recently traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, known for his scoring prowess and elite passing skills.

Darius Garland

The star point guard the Cavaliers traded to acquire Harden, a move that was met with some skepticism but has already paid dividends with Harden's impressive debut.

Jaylon Tyson

A Cavaliers player who benefited from Harden's highlight-reel pass, finishing the play with an easy dunk.

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What they’re saying

“It doesn't even matter. I took four shots and we won by 25 points. So, who cares?”

— James Harden

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to continue building chemistry between Harden and the rest of the roster as they push for an NBA championship this season.

The takeaway

James Harden's unselfish play and elite passing skills on display in his Cavaliers debut prove he can be the missing piece to help Cleveland contend for an NBA title, validating the team's decision to trade for the superstar guard.