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James Harden traded to Cavaliers for Darius Garland

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By Titan Frey | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 2:27 AM ET

The rumors have now come true. The Los Angeles Clippers have traded James Harden away, but where he has gone may come as a surprise. Harden was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland and a future second-round draft pick.

BREAKING: The Los Angeles Clippers are trading James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Darius Garland and a second-round pick, sources tell ESPN. Prolific swap of the star point guards. pic.twitter.com/IHhhhabJnX

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 4, 2026

This is a swap of star point guards. One, Harden, who was a superstar back in his prime, and the other, Garland, a star on the rise. So far this season, Harden has put up averages of 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game.

As for Garland, he’s averaged 18.0 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game. Harden certainly has produced the more impressive stats this season, but Garland is 10 years younger, showing the Clippers may be planning for the future.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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