Las Vegas Raiders defensive star Maxx Crosby made his feelings plain this week after a blockbuster NBA trade sent James Harden to Cleveland. The pass rusher publicly embraced the move and instantly declared new allegiance to the Cavaliers.
Crosby’s reaction illustrated how closely athletes across leagues follow roster shifts and how trades can recalibrate fan loyalties. Harden’s arrival in Cleveland paired him with Donovan Mitchell and reshapes the Eastern Conference picture, prompting high‑profile endorsements from players outside the NBA.
Las Vegas Raiders, Maxx Crosby
Nov 30, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) reacts during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
The trade itself was significant, with Cleveland sending Darius Garland and draft capital to Los Angeles in a deal that immediately altered championship calculations. Harden brings veteran scoring and playmaking to a roster that had been searching for a complementary creator to ease pressure on its core pieces.
For Crosby, the move transcended box score analysis; it was personal enthusiasm for a veteran chasing an elusive title. Social media reactions from athletes tend to amplify trades beyond the front office noise, and Crosby’s post became a prominent example of a player publicly backing an incoming star’s bid for a ring.
Las Vegas Raiders Star Maxx Crosby Reacts to Major NBA Trade Involving James Harden
Las Vegas Raiders, Maxx Crosby
Sep 15, 2024; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) looks on during a timeout during the first half against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
Crosby has shared his thoughts about Harden being traded to the Cavs. This can be seen in a post he shared on his official X account.
Never Thought I Would Be Rooting For The Cavs Ever… LFG !!!!! @JHarden13 Ring Time! https://t.co/n18mB0dtUO
— Maxx Crosby (@CrosbyMaxx) February 4, 2026
Analysts will debate the long‑term fit, defensive impact and salary implications, but Cleveland’s front office clearly signaled win‑now intent. The Cavs add a veteran with championship experience to a youthful core, while the Clippers receive youth and cost control in return, setting up new narratives for both franchises.
Crosby’s pivot underscores a broader trend of cross‑sport engagement where stars in one league weigh in on major moves in another. Those endorsements can matter for fan perception and media attention, turning a trade into a cultural moment that draws interest beyond traditional basketball audiences.
The Harden trade will be judged by postseason outcomes, but for now it has already changed alignments and conversations. Maxx Crosby simply added an exclamation point, lending celebrity energy to a deal that could define the Cavaliers’ title chase.
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