James Harden has candidly expressed his desire to be traded from the Los Angeles Clippers.
Despite the Clippers performing well with a 17-5 record over their last 22 games, Harden has decided to pursue other opportunities. His long-term goal is to win a championship.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Harden believes the Clippers are not positioned to contend for a title. “I’m told James Harden wants to go compete for a championship,” Charania stated. “This Clippers team has come on strong this last month or so, but they’re still a play-in team.”
The Clippers’ recent success has improved their record to 23-26, placing them ninth in the Western Conference. While continued victories might change their standing, it seems Harden wasn’t confident about that chance.
Harden has now joined the Cavaliers, who hold a 30-21 record. He will collaborate with Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, which may offer him a better shot at a championship than what he saw with the Clippers.
If this is indeed the main reason for Harden’s trade, the Clippers and their supporters may feel disappointed, particularly considering the team’s recent performance.