"In what might be the biggest deal before Thursday's NBA trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers and LA Clippers agreed Tuesday to swap point guards Darius Garland and James Harden in a one-for-one deal that also sends a 2026 second-round pick to the Clippers, per ESPN's Shams Charania. Both teams are hoping this trade of 2025 All-Stars with nearly identical salaries will produce better results during disappointing seasons."
"Garland's toe injuries have been a key factor in that decline. He's been dealing with toe issues since last April, and offseason surgery hasn't solved them. Garland suffered a contusion to his troublesome left toe shortly after returning in November and is now sidelined by a big toe sprain on the right foot. When he's been available, Garland is shooting just 36% on 3s, down from 40% a year ago."
The Cleveland Cavaliers traded point guard Darius Garland to the LA Clippers for James Harden and a 2026 second-round pick. Both 2025 All-Stars have nearly identical salaries and each team expects improved results after disappointing stretches. The Cavaliers are competing for positioning in the middle of the Eastern Conference after finishing atop the East last season, while the Clippers' recent hot streak has only reached the play-in tournament following a dreadful start. Harden is expected to jolt an offense that ranks eighth in offensive rating after leading the league in 2024-25. Garland has battled persistent toe injuries and declining shooting and usage, and Cleveland has been outscored by 3.0 points per 100 possessions with Garland on the court; the team has leaned heavily on Donovan Mitchell.
Read at ESPN.com
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