Rival Executive Says Cleveland’s Darius Garland Is Clippers’ Best Possible Return for James Harden
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The Cleveland Cavaliers have put All-Star guard Darius Garland on the table in talks for Los Angeles Clippers veteran James Harden, and at least one league executive believes no other club will match that proposal.
“The Clippers can shop Harden all they want, but they won’t find anything better than Garland,” the executive told Hoops Wire. “You’re talking about a 26-year-old point guard for a 36-year-old who’s never satisfied. Good luck doing better than that.”
According to multiple reports, Cleveland’s pitch is a one-for-one swap, with Los Angeles resisting requests to add a draft pick or pick swap. The NBA trade deadline is 3 p.m. ET on Thursday, giving the Clippers limited time to explore alternatives.
Other Suitors Monitoring Harden
The Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans and additional teams have expressed interest in Harden, who has notified the Clippers he would like to move on before the deadline. Still, the rival executive doubts any of those clubs will outbid Cleveland.
“Even the Clippers probably know that deal isn’t out there,” he said. “They can wait until the last minute and then hope the Cavs are still willing.”
Financial Numbers Line Up
Garland’s $39.45 million salary narrowly exceeds Harden’s $39.18 million, allowing the trade to work under the cap despite Cleveland being above the second apron. Harden carries an implied no-trade clause, a 15 percent trade kicker, and only $13.32 million of his $42.32 million salary for next season is guaranteed. Garland, signed long-term, has missed time this year with toe and ankle injuries.
Production Comparison
Harden remains productive, averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 44 games while shooting nearly 91 percent from the foul line. Garland, limited to 26 appearances, is posting 18.0 points and 6.9 assists in just over 30 minutes per night. The Cavaliers are 13-13 when he plays and 17-8 without him.
Whether those numbers persuade Los Angeles to accept Cleveland’s offer—or force the Clippers to attach the coveted draft compensation—will be decided by Thursday afternoon.
Source: Hoops Wire
