All-Star Swap: Harden to Cleveland, Garland to L.A. in Deadline Shocker

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The NBA landscape shifted late Tuesday night, February 3, 2026, as the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers finalized a blockbuster trade sending 11-time All-Star James Harden to Cleveland. In exchange, the Clippers receive two-time All-Star point guard Darius Garland and a 2026 second-round draft pick.

The deal, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, marks a “win-now” pivot for the Cavaliers as they move on from a cornerstone of their “Core Four” to pair one of the greatest scorers in league history with Donovan Mitchell.

The Deal at a Glance

The trade is a direct swap of star-level backcourt talent, necessitated by Harden’s desire for a new home and Cleveland’s urgency to capitalize on Mitchell’s prime.

Cleveland Receives: James Harden
L.A. Clippers Receive: Darius Garland, 2026 2nd-Round Pick (CLE)

To facilitate the move, Harden reportedly waived a portion of his $2.3 million trade bonus and his one-year “Bird restriction” (veto power). This ensures the Cavaliers stay under the punitive second luxury tax apron while acquiring the 36-year-old veteran.

Why the Cavaliers Pulled the Trigger

For Cleveland (30–21), currently 5th in the East, the move is a gamble on high-end production over youth and continuity.

The Production: Harden is having his best statistical season in years, averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds through 44 games.
The “Mitchell” Factor: Reports indicate that Donovan Mitchell and Harden have already connected and are “very excited” about the partnership. The Cavs front office reportedly felt the backcourt with Garland had reached its ceiling after consecutive early playoff exits.
Injury Concerns: Garland, 26, has been hampered by persistent toe injuries, missing 25 games already this season. By moving him now, Cleveland avoids the long-term risk of his five-year, $197 million contract if those injuries become chronic.

What it Means for the Clippers

The Clippers (23–26) were at a crossroads with an aging roster. By moving Harden, they accomplish two goals:

Youth Infusion: They land a 26-year-old All-Star in Garland who can serve as a long-term bridge for the franchise.
Financial Clarity: They move off the uncertainty of Harden’s 2026-27 player option. If Garland returns to health, his “smooth-shooting” playstyle is seen as a perfect fit alongside Kawhi Leonard.

Tactical Comparison: Harden vs. Garland (2025–26)

Feature	James Harden (36)	Darius Garland (26)
Points Per Game	25.4	18.0
Assists Per Game	8.1	6.9
FG / 3PT %	41.9% / 34.7%	45.1% / 36.0%
Games Played	44	26
Contract Status	$42.3M PO (26-27)	Signed through 27-28

Irony on the Schedule

In a twist of fate, the Cavaliers and Clippers are scheduled to play each other tonight, Wednesday night, in Los Angeles. While neither Harden nor Garland is expected to suit up for their new teams immediately due to physicals and travel, the atmosphere at the Intuit Dome will be electric as the two franchises begin their new chapters.