All seemed well for the Los Angeles Clippers lately. Despite a slow start to the year, the James Harden-Kawhi Leonard-led squad has clawed its way back into the NBA Play-In picture. The Clippers have been one of the hottest teams, but their deadline plans might involve a massive shakeup.
James Harden could see a change of scenery amid his third year with the Clippers. On Monday night, the Clippers hosted the Philadelphia 76ers to close out a back-to-back set. Once again, Harden was ruled out due to personal reasons.
The absence on Sunday didn't raise red flags, as Harden was getting honored at ASU, where he played college hoops. The second-straight absence, followed by a non-update from the head coach, Tyronn Lue, before Monday's outing against the Sixers, led to some light speculation. Hours later, numerous outlets reported that Harden could indeed be on the move.
James Harden's Key Contract Detail and Why It Matters
Since joining the Clippers, Harden has been open to signing short-term deals with the team.
In 2024-2025, he made $33.6 million on a two-year, $70 million contract. Harden declined the $36.3 million option for this season and re-signed on a higher contract after an All-Star season.
In 2025-2026, Harden is making $39.1 million. He has another player option for the 2026-2027 season, which is worth $42.3 million. All of the power is in Harden's hands currently.
The Clippers can talk shop with Harden's blessing and find the deals that are right for them, but if Harden wants to veto, he has the authority to do so, according to ESPN's Bobby Marks.
Currently, the Cleveland Cavaliers are the only team known to be in the mix for Harden. If all goes right in negotiations between Cleveland and LA, the league could see a Harden-Darius Garland swap before Thursday's deadline. Multiple reports have hinted there are other teams interested, but the Cavs are the only revealed suitors for the 11-time All-Star at the moment.
Since the Cavaliers are a top-five contender in the Eastern Conference, it wouldn't come as a surprise if Harden is open to joining their team ahead of their eventual playoff run. If there is a different team that enters the mix-that Harden is strongly for or against-the Clippers can't simply choose the best offer and get a deal done without the sharpshooter's blessing.
The Clippers will host the Cavs on Wednesday for their final game before the deadline kicks in.
Newsweek