The Los Angeles Clippers and guard James Harden have been in ongoing discussions about a potential separation for several weeks, multiple outlets reported Tuesday.
According to ClutchPoints writers Brett Siegel and Tomer Azarly, the club was initially taken aback when Harden indicated he wanted to leave, even though internal conversations about a split had already been underway.
Deadline pressure
ESPN’s Shams Charania previously noted that Harden and the Clippers are collaborating to locate a trade partner before Thursday’s league deadline. The Cleveland Cavaliers have surfaced as the top candidate, but other contenders remain in the mix, sources said.
Cleveland connection
Los Angeles holds interest in Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland, who remains a focal point of any negotiation, the reports added. Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix indicated Cleveland is seeking draft compensation—preferably a first-round pick or a pick swap—to move Garland, a stance the Clippers have so far resisted.
Contract flexibility
Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko pointed out that Harden’s contract structure could be fueling trade talks. The former MVP owns a $42.32 million player option for the 2026-27 season, but only $13.32 million of that figure is guaranteed, giving both the player and any acquiring team significant financial flexibility.
Team viewpoint
Following Monday’s loss to Philadelphia, Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue did not delve into trade specifics but told reporters that Harden “means a lot” to the organization, per ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne.
With the trade deadline looming and both sides continuing to weigh their options, the future of Harden in Los Angeles appears increasingly uncertain.
Source: Hoops Wire
