Cavs newcomer James Harden: ‘I’m excited about Cleveland’

James Harden didn’t see this one coming. Almost no one did.

As you know, Harden is headed to the Cavaliers after being dealt by the Clippers for Darius Garland, a move that materialized quickly and quietly before it suddenly became very real.

Most around the league figured Harden would finish things in Los Angeles. He’s from there. The fit made sense. The ending felt predictable.

Instead, the future Hall of Famer is now joining Donovan Mitchell in Cleveland, chasing the one thing that has always eluded him.

“At the end of the day, it is a business, and I think both sides got what they wanted, are in a great place and are very happy,” Harden told ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne. “I’m excited about Cleveland. I’m still trying to chase my first championship and do whatever it takes to win.”

Harden made it clear the move wasn’t forced. He did not request a trade. But contract talks with the Clippers last summer stalled, as Los Angeles prioritized flexibility over long-term security for a player entering his mid-thirties.

That reality helped open the door.

“I wanted them to actually have a chance to rebuild and get some draft capital,” Harden said. “I see an opportunity to win in the East. They got a very good team, coaching staff, all of the above.

“So as much as I wanted to stay in L.A. and give it a go, I’ve never won one before. As a basketball mind, I think we have a bit better chance.”

Harden is averaging 25.4 points and 8.1 assists and now joins a Cavaliers core that includes Mitchell and Evan Mobley.