The Cleveland Cavaliers’ decision to trade for James Harden sparked plenty of debate across the league, but the early returns suggest the move is already paying off. Cleveland has won its first three games with Harden in the lineup, including against the Denver Nuggets.
Harden appears to be settling in quickly, building rhythm with his new teammates and making an immediate impact. Following Wednesday night’s win over the Washington Wizards, the 2018 MVP opened up about his growing chemistry with Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, offering high praise for the All-Star guard’s humble nature.
James Harden Reveals Donovan Mitchell Gesture as the Co-Stars Build Chemistry
On Jan. 4, the Cavaliers sent Darius Garland, along with a second-round pick, to Los Angeles for James Harden. People questioned the logic of sending a 26-year-old two-time All-Star for a 36-year-old veteran, but the Cavaliers were partly concerned about Garland’s durability while believing Harden would boost their championship aspirations.
The early returns have been encouraging, and Harden has credited Mitchell for helping ease his transition.
“Obviously, you got a great coach, but you got a whole lot of guys that are willing to do whatever it takes to win, outside looking in. But once you actually get here, that’s really the case,” Harden said in the postgame press conference.
“Even for Don, like last game in Denver, the last couple minutes of the game, he gave me the ball to let me facilitate and do what i do. You don’t really get that from superstars in this league. That right there gave me the hope that we both have the same freedom.”
“Even in Denver, the last couple minutes of the game, Don gave me the ball to facilitate… You don’t really get that from super stars in this league”
James Harden credits Donovan Mitchell for giving him the freedom to be himself and lead. #cavs pic.twitter.com/jW1wGHr2qQ
— Gabriella Kreuz (@thesportsGab) February 12, 2026
Harden also spoke about embracing his role, emphasizing that winning matters more than individual numbers.
“They have good vibes and energy. I told them I’ll figure it out. I’ll find my way in. Like tonight, I shoot 4 shots but we won by 25 points. That’s the most important thing. I’m just here to win,” the 11-time All-Star added.
In Wednesday’s 138-113 victory over the Washington Wizards, Harden recorded 13 points, four rebounds, and 11 assists in 28 minutes, while Mitchell and Sam Merrill combined for 62 points. In his first two games with Cleveland, Harden scored 22 and 23 points, adding seven and eight assists, respectively.
With the win, the Cavaliers improved to 34-21 on the season and currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference standings. They are just 1.5 games behind the 35-19 Boston Celtics for second place and will look to close the gap when they return from the All-Star break on Feb. 19 against the Brooklyn Nets.
