A trade involving James Harden may move quickly following his unexpected trade request.
The surprising news emerged on Monday night that Harden is in discussions with the L.A. Clippers about a potential trade before the Thursday deadline. If successful, this would mark the end of Harden’s two-and-a-half-year period with the Clippers.
Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated mentioned that the Cleveland Cavaliers are currently leading the race to acquire Harden. Mannix reported that the Clippers are engaged in “advanced discussions” to send Harden to Cleveland in exchange for guard Darius Garland.
Harden’s trade request came during the Clippers’ game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. He did not play that night and also missed a win over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday due to what the team called “personal” reasons.
The Clippers had a rough start to the season with a 6-21 record but have bounced back, winning 17 of their last 21 games to reach 23-25, placing them ninth in the Western Conference. Harden is from L.A. and seemed to be content with the Clippers, making his sudden request surprising.
The Cavaliers sit fifth in the Eastern Conference at 30-21 this season, a drop from their impressive 64-win season last year. Although Cleveland isn’t traditionally seen as a prime destination for players, they might take a chance on Harden, who can opt out of his contract this summer. Following a surprising trade with the Sacramento Kings over the weekend, the Cavaliers could be looking to make a bold move by acquiring the 36-year-old Harden.