James Harden Speaks About Getting Traded From Los Angeles Clippers To Cleveland Cavaliers: ‘I See An Opportunity To Win In The East’
NBA legend James Harden got traded from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Darius Garland in what was a stunning trade since it seemingly came out of nowhere.
Most people in the NBA expected Harden to retire with the Clippers since he’s from Los Angeles. However, the future Hall of Famer is now headed to Cleveland to play with Donovan Mitchell and the man they call “The Beard” is excited about it.
“At the end of the day, it is a business, and I think both sides got what they wanted, are in a great place and are very happy,” Harden told Ramona Shelburne of ESPN. “I’m excited about Cleveland. I’m still trying to chase my first championship and do whatever it takes to win.”
Harden told Shelburne that he didn’t request a trade from the Clippers. The 2018 MVP is making $39.3 million this season, with $13.8 million of his $49.2 million salary for next season guaranteed.
Harden had sought more security in negotiations with the Clippers last offseason, but Los Angeles declined to offer him a longer-term deal because of his age and an organizational prioritization of long-term flexibility.
That’s why this trade worked out well for both sides, as the Cavaliers will probably sign Harden to a new contract after this season.
“I wanted them to actually have a chance to rebuild and get some draft capital,” Harden said. “I see an opportunity to win in the East. They got a very good team, coaching staff, all of the above. So as much as I wanted to stay in L.A. and give it a go, I’ve never won one before. As a basketball mind, I think we have a bit better chance.”
Harden is averaging 25.4 points and 8.1 assists per game this season. He now joins a Cavaliers team with Mitchell and Evan Mobley.
A top 75 player of all time, Harden is still searching to win his first NBA championship. Mitchell and Mobley have never advanced past the second round of the playoffs. Harden made the NBA Finals back in 2012 with the Oklahoma City Thunder, who lost to the Miami Heat in five games.
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