LOS ANGELES — Early Tuesday afternoon, on the campus of USC, Darius Garland was telling people close to him that he would probably be staying in Los Angeles, as a member of the Clippers.
He was right.
Sources tell cleveland.com the Cavs have traded Garland and a 2026 second-round pick to the Clippers for 11-time All-Star James Harden — the framework of a deal that intensified late Monday night.
The agreed-to trade ends Garland’s tenure in Cleveland, going from fifth overall pick in 2019 to two-time All-Star. It also gives Harden what he has been coveting — a new home and chance to compete for a championship.
In 44 games this season, Harden is averaging 25.4 points on 41.9% from the field, including 34.7% from 3-point range to go with 8.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds.
Garland, previously the longest tenured Cavalier and part of a core group that helped Cleveland return to respectability in the post-LeBron era, has battled injuries once again this season.
Following summer toe surgery, Garland missed Cleveland’s first seven games. He has been sidelined since Jan. 14 because of a sprained toe on his other foot that has limited him to individual on-court workouts.
In 26 games this season, Garland is averaging 18.0 points and 6.9 assists.
Cleveland, 30-21 and winners of eight of the last 10 games, are currently in Los Angeles to play the Clippers Wednesday night.