Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers
News broke on Tuesday night (Feb. 3) that surprised many NBA fans. It appears that every single trade at the 2026 NBA Trade Deadline has had been just as startling as the previous. Star players are moving all over the league.
There have been a number of crazy moves, though the dominoes started falling with a move that happened between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers. 26-year-old Darius Garland was swapped for 36-year-old James Harden, in a move that seemingly materialized the night before.
The trade was certainly a shocker for fans of the Cavs, who have watched the guard grow into a franchise player. Selected #5 back in 2019, he was a 2X All-Star in Cleveland.
Garland issued a statement on social media earlier today. Let’s get into it.
Darius Garland Speaks for First Time Following Trade
New Clippers guard Darius Garland took to social media to express what his time in Cleveland meant to him. Having played over 400 regular season games and been to the playoffs three times with them, it’s got to be tough to now say goodbye.
Garland mentioned in the statement that Cleveland would always be a second home to him. Being there from the time he was 19 to now, a 26-year-old, this is the place he really grew. He was a huge part of making the Cavs a desirable team to play for again following LeBron James‘ second exit.
This is a player that was able to fit in right away. Through the ups and downs, he came a player the team was able to count on to deliver when they were in need of somebody to step up. It certainly has to come as a surprise to the guard, who is under contract through the end of the 2027-28 campaign.
Though his role changed significantly when Donovan Mitchell came in, he took it in stride and continued to deliver the occasional superstar-like performance. Based on everything that was visible, he appeared happy being in Cleveland. But injuries that started bothering him during the playoffs last year and have persisted may have given the team pause.
Acquiring an aging veteran like James Harden for the youngster was certainly a decision. But, greener pastures should be ahead for Garland, who will be expecting to shoulder a larger role in LA when he comes back from the toe injury.
Darius Garland’s Next Chapter
Reports surfaced that Darius Garland should be able to return shortly after the All-Star break. This would give him a somewhere between 25-28 games to get a feel in his new come, and to try and get his team into the play-in.
As it stands now, the Clippers are holding an NBA Play-In Tournament spot. Moving on from James Harden and not having his replacement for the next five games could be a little tough, but time will tell how things work out.
It’s clear from his statement though, that Garland will certainly miss Cleveland. The trade has not officially processed yet, so though the Clippers and Cavs are set to play tonight (Feb. 4), he may not be on the bench.
Garland is going to be fondly remembered in The Land. He is unlikely to have his jersey retired, but an epic video tribute and warm welcome should be expected. Upon return next year, it’ll be an emotional battle.