Cavs land Harden in swap that sends Garland, draft pick to Clippers
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The Cleveland Cavaliers have reached an agreement to acquire guard James Harden from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Darius Garland and a Cavaliers second-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, according to multiple reports led by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Sources told Hoops Wire the draft selection headed to Los Angeles comes in the next draft cycle. The deal was finalized just days before Thursday’s 3 p.m. EST trade deadline.
Why Cleveland moved
After surveying high-profile options such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis, Cleveland viewed Harden as the most attainable path to a significant immediate upgrade. The 36-year-old, named one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players, will slot alongside Donovan Mitchell to form a high-octane backcourt intended to push the Cavaliers deeper into postseason contention.
Clippers secure younger floor leader
Los Angeles gains a 26-year-old two-time All-Star in Garland, a player the organization has monitored for several seasons. The move provides the Clippers with a long-term point-guard solution and greater roster flexibility beyond their current competitive window.
Busy week for the Cavs
The Harden deal marks Cleveland’s second trade in four days. On Sunday, the Cavaliers shipped DeAndre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings in a three-team transaction that brought in Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis from the Kings and Chicago Bulls.
Source: Hoops Wire
