James Harden (Image Credits: Imagn)

James Harden Calls NBA 'Loyalty' Narrative Overrated as Player Movement Continues to Rise

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Debmallya Chakraborty | Last updated Feb 12, 2026 10:55 AM ET

James Harden recently shocked and made waves, sending the NBA fans into a frenzy. Playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, Harden switched his allegiance to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a blockbuster move. However, as most fans seemed dissatisfied with the 36-year-old, the former Clippers star responded strongly to his switch.

Loyalty in the NBA has been a big concern for the fans. Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and others have built reputations for playing with one franchise for a long time. But as people question Harden’s loyalty to the Clippers, he calls the entire idea pretty much “overrated.”

“The whole quote unquote loyalty thing, I think it’s overrated,” said Harden.

"The whole quote unquote loyalty thing, I think it's overrated."#Cavs James Harden on why it's become the norm for guys to play on multiple teams throughout their career: pic.twitter.com/fykczB5DZQ
— Leah Doherty (@LeahDohertyTV) February 12, 2026

According to the 11-time NBA All-Star, fans should normalize a player donning the colors of multiple teams in his career. Meanwhile, as the buzz is still going on, Harden broke his silence about the trade recently.

James Harden Did Not Have A ‘Guaranteed’ Contract

James Harden (Image Credits: Imagn)

Harden’s exit from the Clippers came as a shocker. As one of the team’s biggest strengths, the 6x All-NBA First Team is averaging 25 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. Breaking the silence on his blockbuster trade, Harden had some interesting updates to share.

“I was informed (a trade) was a possibility and I was like, ‘Oh wow. But me and L Frank had conversations about my contract not being guaranteed. Which I understand that part. There’s a part where if we’re not good enough, they gotta make decisions for their team… I think both sides made the right decision. Credit to those guys. Much love to those guys. I hope the best and much success,” said Harden.

James Harden said he understands the Clippers felt they weren’t good enough and had to make a decision for their future:

“I was informed (a trade) was a possibility and I was like, ‘Oh wow.’ But me and L Frank had conversations about my contract not being guaranteed. Which I… pic.twitter.com/SamUsAmjaM
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) February 8, 2026