Did the Clippers really just make a significant shift at a time when they were gaining traction? Was it wise to let go of one of their standout players right as things were looking up for them? Perhaps they made a drastic change just as momentum was building.
It might feel like one of the most pivotal moves in Clippers history.
But hold on a moment.
The decision to acquire Darius Garland alongside James Harden is actually smart for the long term, reflecting a franchise that needs to keep an eye on the future.
Garland, who is 26, is quite a bit younger than Harden. He has been an All-Star twice—in 2022 and this year. He could potentially be a key part of their future strategy as they look toward reshaping things by the 2027 offseason.
This trade also favors Harden.
He’s now in a setting alongside Donovan Mitchell with the potential for a contract extension that the Clippers hadn’t been ready to offer to the 36-year-old.
Unlike his previous exits from Houston, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia, this time the parting was much more amicable—more of a handshake than a break-up filled with drama.
With the oldest roster in NBA history averaging 33.2 years, the Clippers definitely needed a refresh. On the flip side, Harden—despite being a well-regarded player without a strong win record—now has the opportunity to compete with a team ranking fifth in the East rather than ninth in the tightly packed West.
Last season, the Cavaliers won 64 games before getting knocked out in the second round of the playoffs. For them, acquiring Harden means bringing in a seasoned veteran who has extensive playoff experience, enhancing their chances of overcoming hurdles they’ve faced since LeBron James left in 2018.
As for the Clippers, they seem to be kicking the can down the road this season.
To be honest, they weren’t in a position to win anyway.
Sure, they went from a shaky 6-21 start to a more respectable 17-5. That was stirring, definitely. Made for some good headlines. But they had already lost too much ground against other strong competitors like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Webanyama, Nikola Jokic, Kevin Durant, and Luka Doncic.
This move might appear to be a step back for the Clippers.
Garland, averaging 18 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists, missed the start of the season due to toe surgery and has been out with an ankle sprain since January 16. In contrast, Harden played 44 out of 49 games with averages of 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 8.1 assists.
So, in this case, if Harden is on fire, Garland is just getting back on his feet.
Yet, this is just the first of many critical moves the Clippers need to undertake to rebuild. After missing the playoffs in 2022, they’re still searching for a fresh start. Even if Garland isn’t quite at Harden’s level right now, there’s plenty of promise there.
While Garland’s contract reflects some hesitance regarding Harden, it’s a calculated risk. He’s set to earn $42.2 million next season, rising to $44.9 million by 2027-28.
Clearly, the Leonard-Harden combination hasn’t been effective. Leonard is often sidelined with injuries, while Harden is no longer in a position to be the go-to player. The Clippers are eyeing the future—specifically 2027—as they prepare for a possible post-Leonard phase.
Leonard might still play like an All-NBA player, but things are trickier than they seem. Since joining the Clippers as a free agent in 2019, he has missed over 200 games and multiple playoff series. Plus, both he and the Clippers are under scrutiny regarding allegations around his $28 million deal with Aspiration and salary cap violations.
Leonard’s contract extends through the 2026-27 season. Even at his best, he can heavily influence games, but he’s definitely a bit unpredictable.
By trading away Harden, the Clippers are signifying that they’re looking ahead.
This move appears to be a positive step for both the team and Harden, giving them both a chance to chase the future they desire.
