Clippers Cavaliers Near Harden for Garland Blockbuster

Merlin sees the Clippers and Cavaliers deep in trade talks that would send James Harden to Cleveland for Darius Garland. Chris Mannix says the clubs have had "advanced discussions," and Tyronn Lue called Harden’s absence Monday for "personal reasons." Shams Charania reports "Both sides are aligned in conversations together and with interested teams." Harden would pair with Donovan Mitchell as Cleveland chases a first title, while Garland’s injuries and hefty future cap hits make him movable for Los Angeles. Merlin senses a classic win-now versus reset story. Cleveland gains a veteran playmaker averaging 25.4 points and 8.1 assists, but chemistry and Harden’s short-term control of his future matter. The Clippers weigh immediate continuity against long-term flexibility. Player consent and playoff math will cast the deciding spell.