James Harden Sends Heartfelt Message to Clippers After Trade to Cavaliers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 8:42 PM ET

NBA star James Harden is ready for the next chapter of his career in the NBA. In a final trade on Tuesday, the Los Angeles Clippers sent him to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for star Darius Garland. Although the two teams had previously had "advanced discussions" over the trade, the reports of a possible deal surfaced on Monday.

Before the trade, Harden had been away from the team. He was listed as out in their injury report for "personal reasons." The 11-time All-Star played his last game for the Clippers on Friday against the Denver Nuggets. The star's two-and-a-half seasons in Los Angeles came to an end with the move.

Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1).Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

On X on Wednesday, Harden addressed the trade. He sent a heartfelt message to the Clippers as he moves forward with his career in Cleveland.

“thank you Steve Ballmer, L Frank and the entire Clipper organization. Two and a half years ago, you welcomed me with open arms and allowed me to be the best version of myself. To say I’m grateful is (an) understatement. I’ll forever consider myself a Clipper,” Harden posted.

@LAClippers pic.twitter.com/V95XARxcLJ
— James Harden (@JHarden13) February 5, 2026

With the Clippers, the star guard played 195 games. He averaged 21.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 8.5 assists. He helped LA make the postseason twice and represented the organization as an All-Star once.

The Cavaliers and Clippers are set to play against each other on Wednesday. However, Chris Haynes, Senior NBA Insider for NBA on Prime, reported that Harden won't suit up for his new team. The star guard is listed as out for personal reasons.

Haynes reported that Harden is expected to play his first game with the Cavaliers on Saturday against the Sacramento Kings.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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