The NBA trade deadline doesn’t close until Thursday at 3 p.m. EST, but the drama has already been sky-high this week, with several deals already completed.
While all eyes remain on the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes and whether the Milwaukee Bucks will trade their two-time MVP, the biggest deal so far is arguably the Cleveland Cavaliers sending star point guard Darius Garland and a second-round pick to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for veteran guard James Harden — a move that happened quickly after trade rumors surfaced.
Now, less than 24 hours after the deal, Garland has broken his silence about leaving Cleveland in an emotional message on Instagram:
"Dear Cleveland, I'll never forget the night I was drafted to Cleveland back in 2019 and everything I've gained since. This city taught me more than I could've imagined. To the coaches, staff, front office, the Gilbert family, my teammates, and the fans — thank you for the love and support. Cleveland will always be a second home, and I'll carry these memories with me forever.
—Always love, 10"
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The Cavaliers were the No. 1 overall seed in the Eastern Conference less than a year ago, but injuries and Garland’s inability to stay on the court forced them to reevaluate.
They are now looking to maximize their window to compete for a championship while the East remains wide open — and in their eyes, acquiring a player like Harden gives them the best chance to do so.
This season, Garland has played in 26 games, averaging 18.0 points and 6.9 assists, while Harden, 36, is averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds.
Coincidentally, the Cavaliers are scheduled to play the Clippers on Wednesday night; however, both players have already been ruled out.
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