The Cavaliers continued their hot streak Wednesday night, defeating the Los Angeles Clippers in blowout fashion. The win marked Cleveland's seventh victory in their last eight games.
It also marked the debut of two new players acquired via trade, Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis who came from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Deandre Hunter.
Each played 19 minutes, with Schroder posting 11 points, six assists, two rebounds and three steals. Ellis scored seven points and also showed his worth defensively with two steals.
That said, all the anticipation surrounds James Harden, having been acquired most recently for Darius Garland.
Donovan Mitchell spoke to the media about his thoughts on the trade and sounded eager to work with the former three-time scoring champion. “We both know that it’s going to be an adjustment,” said Mitchell. “But, we’re excited. I’m excited about what he can do for me as a player and I’m excited about what he can do for our team as a whole."
Head coach Kenny Atkinson also shared a similar sentiment saying, he thinks his job will be a "whole lot easier" with Harden in the fold.
Harden is likely to make his debut Saturday against the Sacramento Kings, giving Cavaliers fans a first-look at his pairing with Mitchell in the backcourt.
Currently fourth in the Eastern Conference standings, the Cavaliers are hopeful that the acquisition of Harden will help them hold off pursuers and earn homecourt advantage for at least the first round of the playoffs.
More NBA news: