This week, James Harden was the only major player traded to a team with championship goals. While Jaren Jackson Jr., Anthony Davis, and Ivica Zubac moved to clubs focused on future seasons, the Cleveland Cavaliers aim to enhance their immediate title chances with Harden.
Discussions about Harden began six weeks ago, as reported by Marc J. Spears of Andscape. This coincides with the timeline given by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, who noted the Clippers started receiving trade inquiries about Harden, Zubac, and Kawhi Leonard around their poor record of 6-21 on December 18.
During this period, Harden’s team began exploring potential trade opportunities to gauge interest from various teams. Although the idea of returning to the Rockets was appealing to Harden, Houston did not pursue him, as their starting point guard Fred VanVleet is currently injured.
In contrast, the Cavaliers were very interested in Harden, seeing him as a key player who could maximize the talents of big men Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen while sharing playmaking duties with Donovan Mitchell. Darius Garland, who has been dealing with toe injuries, previously filled this role.
Cavs president of basketball operations Koby Altman dismissed rumors of frustration regarding Garland’s injuries, calling them “BS,” according to Law Murray of The Athletic. Nevertheless, Garland’s issues have impacted the team’s current win-now strategy.
Reports from Tony Jones of The Athletic and Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com indicate that Harden and Mitchell had a productive phone conversation before the trade, which helped solidify their commitment to playing together and aiming for a championship.
“We both know that it’s going to be an adjustment,” Mitchell said. “But we’re excited about what he can do for me as a player, and for our team. We want the same thing: a championship.”
Mitchell acknowledged he would need to adjust to playing off the ball but expressed confidence in his ability to do so. He emphasized their shared goal of winning a title.
“Our ceiling is higher,” Mitchell told Fedor. “We all know what he brings, and now we need to take this opportunity to succeed.”
Head coach Kenny Atkinson was optimistic about how Harden and Mitchell would work together. He stated that great players often fit well together, and he looks forward to figuring out the best ways to utilize both stars.
“Great players fit together. It’s up to us as coaches to adapt and collaborate with Donovan and James,” Atkinson explained. “With such talented players, it’s easier for the coaching staff to make things work.”