The Los Angeles Clippers have become a strong contender in the Western Conference as the NBA trade deadline approaches. After a rough start of 6-21, they managed to secure 17 wins in the following 22 games, giving them a solid shot at making the playoffs. But just when it looked like they were turning things around, star point guard James Harden’s situation became complicated.
As the trade deadline nears, which is set for Thursday, February 5th, there are already some frontrunners looking to acquire Harden, though nothing has been agreed upon yet. Here are three potential speculative trades involving Harden.
Cleveland Cavaliers James Harden Trade Proposal
One of the main rumors circulating involves Harden going to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland. This deal would also involve a pick swap, though the Clippers are justifiably hesitant about it. It’s tough to determine who should receive draft picks in this scenario, but perhaps a future second-round pick could go to Cleveland as a form of compensation. Garland, at just 26 years old, is a decade younger than Harden but has faced numerous injury challenges in recent years. Despite a strong regular season where Cleveland won 64 games, they missed the playoffs last year due in part to a toe injury and lack of health this season. The NBA typically doesn’t favor trading young talent for veterans, but if Garland continues to struggle with injuries, one might wonder if the Clippers should overlook that rule. He’s under contract until 2028, meaning this trade could impact the Clippers’ cap space for 2027, but his potential when healthy may justify the risk for Los Angeles.
Houston Rockets James Harden Trade Proposal
This proposed trade is actually my favorite, sending Harden back to Houston where he experienced much of his success. The Rockets are in need of a lead guard now, and despite his current circumstances, Harden remains a top choice. With Fred VanVleet out for the remainder of the season and Dorian Finney-Smith not making much of an impact since joining the team, the Clippers might include a first-round pick in 2028 and negotiate for protection on that pick, which would benefit a franchise low on choices. Pairing Harden with Kevin Durant could instantly position the Rockets as contenders, surprising many who last saw them play together in Brooklyn. Alongside players like Alperen Sangun, Armen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Tali Eason, and Reed Shepard, this roster appears ready to vie for a playoff spot this season.
Atlanta Hawks James Harden Trade Proposal
The trade that would send Harden to the Atlanta Hawks represents a significant salary reduction for the Clippers, which is unfortunate given their recent positive performance. Kristaps Porzingis, who has been effective when healthy, has struggled with injuries and is presently unavailable due to an Achilles strain and a long-standing illness. This trade would keep the Clippers’ salary cap tidy for 2027 while providing the Hawks with a new lead guard following the trade of Trae Young earlier this season.
What do you think is the most interesting hypothetical trade for James Harden?
There were talks about sending him to the Minnesota Timberwolves, but the salary cap didn’t align. Do you think Harden would make a good GM considering his past playoff failures? Would anyone be willing to give him an $80 million contract at this stage in his career? I’m curious about your thoughts, so feel free to share your opinions in the comments.
