The Cavaliers didn't just approach the trade deadline-they made a statement.
By trading Darius Garland to the Clippers for James Harden, Cleveland sent a clear message: the focus is on the present. It's about seizing a championship opportunity that won't last forever.
For Garland, this move wasn't unexpected.
“It was going to happen regardless, either at the deadline or this summer,” Garland shared with Marc J. Spears of Andscape.
“The toe definitely had a factor in it. They didn’t know if I was going to be healthy for this season, which I will be.
They thought that James had something that I didn’t, I believe.
“They want to win right now. They have a group, too. I guess I really wasn’t a part of the plan.”
That's a candid and heavy admission.
Garland's toe injury cast uncertainty over his season. With back-to-back postseason disappointments, the Cavs couldn't afford to gamble on uncertainties. Enter Harden, a seasoned playoff veteran with a knack for leading offenses when the stakes are high.
The early results? Promising.
Since Harden's arrival, the Cavs have been on a roll (heading into Friday’s game at Charlotte). His ability to create plays has opened up opportunities for Donovan Mitchell, provided easy scoring chances for Jarrett Allen, and brought stability to crucial lineups. While Harden's stats are impressive, the impact on the team's dynamics is even more significant.
Garland holds no grudges against Cleveland.
“I tip my hat off to the whole Cleveland organization,” he said. “They did put a lot in me, invested a lot in me and took a lot of risk. So, I tip my hat off to them.
“But now I’m in another good situation over here in L.A. trying to do something, trying to rebuild this whole brand of the Clippers, and try to make it one of the biggest teams in L.A.”
This wasn't about Garland's shortcomings. It was about the Cavs' urgency to win.
As they hit the road, with a stop in Charlotte and a Sunday matchup against the Thunder, Cleveland has made its move. Now, it's time to see if their gamble pays off.