Cavaliers Gain 'Renewed Confidence' with James Harden Addition

Coach Kenny Atkinson credits Harden's arrival for sparking improved play and defensive intensity from Cleveland.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 6:23am

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After the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the New York Knicks 109-94, head coach Kenny Atkinson noted that the addition of veteran guard James Harden has given the team a "renewed confidence" and "edge" that has led to improved play on both ends of the floor. The Cavaliers are 6-1 since acquiring Harden in a trade, and star player Donovan Mitchell says the team is "going off film and going off our IQ" as they continue to integrate the 11-time All-Star into the lineup.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers have been one of the surprise teams in the NBA this season, but the midseason trade for Harden has taken them to another level. Cleveland is now tied for the third seed in the Eastern Conference, and Harden's scoring and playmaking have provided a major boost to an already talented roster.

The details

In the win over the Knicks, Harden scored 20 points and the Cavaliers played strong defense, holding New York to just 11 points in the third quarter. Atkinson said Harden's arrival has given the team a renewed "belief" and "confidence" that has translated to harder play and better results. Mitchell also pointed to a Christmas Day loss to the Knicks earlier this season as a learning experience that has fueled the team's recent surge.

  • The Cavaliers are 6-1 since acquiring Harden in a trade ahead of the NBA trade deadline.
  • Cleveland has won 8 of its last 9 games overall.

The players

Kenny Atkinson

Head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

James Harden

11-time NBA All-Star who was traded to the Cavaliers in a midseason deal.

Donovan Mitchell

Star player for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“Bringing James on has given us a renewed confidence, if that makes sense. We understand we're a better team.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Head Coach, Cleveland Cavaliers (ESPN)

“We're just going off film and going off our IQ in this locker room and guys playing off each other and playing well.”

— Donovan Mitchell (ESPN)

“We got what, 25 games? I think we can get there. Matter of fact, I know we can get there. I think it's going to start defensively because offensively we can have six guys in double figures ... defensive is going to be key.”

— James Harden (ESPN)

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to continue their strong play and solidify their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race over the final 25 games of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Cavaliers' midseason trade for James Harden has provided a major boost to the team's confidence and performance, as evidenced by their recent surge up the standings. Cleveland's improved defense and ability to get contributions from multiple players have them poised for a deep playoff run.