In an unexpected development, Los Angeles Clippers star guard James Harden could be on the move ahead of the 2026 NBA trade deadline.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as a legitimate landing spot for the 2018 MVP, with a rumored deal possibly sending star guard Darius Garland to LA.
Breaking Down James Harden’s 2025-26 Salary Amid Shocking Trade Update
On Monday night, ESPN’s Shams Charania dropped a bombshell report on Harden’s uncertain future with the Clippers, with the deadline just days away.
“The Los Angeles Clippers and 11-time All-Star James Harden are working through whether the sides can find a deal by Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, sources tell ESPN. Both sides are aligned in conversations together and with interested teams,” Charania wrote.
The Los Angeles Clippers and 11-time All-Star James Harden are working through whether the sides can find a deal by Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, sources tell ESPN. Both sides are aligned in conversations together and with interested teams. pic.twitter.com/XzvCz0fc4w
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 3, 2026
Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix also revealed that LA has “had advanced discussions on a deal that would send James Harden to Cleveland in exchange for Darius Garland.”
Harden is in his third campaign with the Clippers, earning $39.2 million this season, with a $42.3 million player option for next season as part of the two-year, $81.5 million deal he signed in the offseason. The second year of his contract is partially guaranteed, raising doubts about the 36-year-old’s long-term future.
That said, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, since Harden’s contract is “technically for one season,” he has “veto power on any trade.” The three-time NBA scoring champion also possesses a 15% trade bonus valued at $2.4 million.
While Harden has outperformed Garland this season, the Cavaliers’ floor general is far younger (26). He is also under contract through the 2027-28 campaign after inking a $197.2 million designated rookie contract extension in 2022, including a $39.4 million salary in the 2025-26 campaign.
However, Garland comes with injury concerns, having been limited to just 26 appearances this season. The two-time All-Star last played on Jan. 14, as he continues to work his way back from a Grade 1 right big toe sprain.
As for Harden, upon being overlooked for his 12th All-Star selection, he missed LA’s Sunday and Monday back-to-back set against the Phoenix Suns and Philadelphia 76ers due to personal reasons. The timing of his absence further fueled speculation that his time with the Clippers could be nearing its conclusion.
A Harden-for-Garland swap would drastically alter both franchises’ timelines. LA sits ninth in the Western Conference (23-26), having experienced a stunning 17-5 turnaround since Dec. 20, spearheaded by superstar forward Kawhi Leonard.
Meanwhile, the Donovan Mitchell-led Cavaliers rank fifth in the Eastern Conference (30-21), a far cry from last year’s dominant first-place finish (64-18).
Through 44 appearances this season, Harden is averaging 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.1 assists, 1.3 steals, and 3.1 3-pointers per game, shooting 41.9%.
As for Garland, he has posted averages of 18.0 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 6.9 apg, 0.8 spg, and 2.3 3pg on 45.1% shooting across 26 outings.
