James Harden is set to join the Cleveland Cavaliers from the Los Angeles Clippers, with Darius Garland moving the other way after the teams agreed a trade.
Harden, 36, is an 11-time NBA All-Star and one of the game’s greatest guards, but he has never won an NBA title. Although the deal is still waiting on NBA approval, Harden said the chance to win his first championship played a big part in his decision.
The Cavaliers, currently fifth in the Eastern Conference, are pushing for a play-off spot, while the Clippers sit ninth in the West. Harden told ESPN he believes Cleveland gives him a better chance to win, even though he wanted to stay in Los Angeles.
Harden helped the Clippers recover from a poor 6-21 start this season but missed Sunday’s loss to the Philadelphia 76ers as talks with the Cavaliers continued. He also denied asking for a trade, saying sometimes teams simply move on when things no longer work.
The former NBA MVP has scored 28,805 career points, ranking ninth on the NBA’s all-time list, but is still chasing a first title. The Cavaliers last won the NBA championship in 2016.
Garland, 26, is averaging 18 points per game this season but has struggled with injuries. As part of the deal, the Clippers will also receive a second-round draft pick.
The Clippers host the Cavaliers on Wednesday, though both Harden and Garland must pass medicals before the trade is officially confirmed.
