Harden Traded to Cavaliers in Deal Involving Darius Garland

Cleveland Cavaliers Acquire James Harden from Los Angeles Clippers

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers have completed a trade that involves the transfer of James Harden to the Cavaliers. According to reports, Darius Garland and a second-round pick will be sent to the Clippers in exchange for Harden.

Harden, who is 36 years old, has been with the Clippers for two and a half seasons. He was held out of the team’s lineup for the last two games due to personal reasons. The former NBA MVP and three-time scoring champion is averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds in 44 games this season.

Harden’s contract with the Clippers requires his approval for any trade, as he is technically under contract for only this season. His deal includes a player option for the second year of the two-year, $81.5m agreement.

Garland, who is 26 years old, has been sidelined since January 14 due to a Grade 1 right toe sprain. He is averaging 18.0 points and 6.9 assists over 26 games this season. The Cavaliers are in contention for the Eastern Conference title, while the Clippers remain in play-in contention in the Western Conference.

The NBA trade deadline is set for Thursday at 3pm ET (20:00 GMT).

Source: Al Jazeera