Cleveland Cavaliers Emerge as NBA's Dark Horse with Harden Trade Impact

After years of playoff disappointment, the Cavs are now poised to make a deep postseason run.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:23am

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The Cleveland Cavaliers, once known for early playoff exits, have transformed into a formidable contender in the Eastern Conference, thanks in large part to their midseason acquisition of superstar James Harden. With Harden's playmaking elevating the entire roster, the Cavs have surged up the standings and are now being touted as potential NBA Finals favorites.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers' turnaround is a remarkable story, as the team has gone from perennial underachievers to one of the most dangerous squads in the league. Their success challenges the conventional wisdom about Harden's playoff struggles and showcases the team's impressive depth and chemistry.

The details

Since the Harden trade, the Cavaliers have gone 5-0 and their offense has been unstoppable. Harden's playmaking has elevated the production of players like Jarrett Allen, while also taking pressure off Donovan Mitchell to shoulder the entire scoring load. The team's improved depth, with the returns of Max Strus and Evan Mobley, has also been a key factor in their recent surge.

  • Since December 29, the Cavaliers have gone 19-5, flying under the radar.
  • The Cavaliers acquired James Harden in a midseason trade.

The players

James Harden

A superstar guard who was acquired by the Cavaliers in a midseason trade, and has since transformed their offense with his elite playmaking and scoring ability.

Donovan Mitchell

The Cavaliers' star player, who has benefited from the addition of Harden, as the two have formed a potent scoring and facilitating duo.

Jarrett Allen

The Cavaliers' starting center, who has seen a significant uptick in production since the Harden trade, thriving in the team's improved pick-and-roll offense.

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What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to continue their strong play and secure a top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs, where they will be aiming to make a deep run and potentially reach the NBA Finals for the first time since LeBron James' departure.

The takeaway

The Cavaliers' transformation from perennial underachievers to legitimate NBA title contenders is a remarkable turnaround, fueled by the midseason acquisition of James Harden and the team's improved depth and chemistry. This unexpected rise challenges the conventional wisdom about Harden's playoff struggles and showcases the Cavs' potential to make a deep postseason run.