Harden For Garland? Clippers And Cavs In Talks

Merlin sees a serious trade whisper turning into a conversation. The Clippers and Cavaliers have held "advanced discussions" about swapping James Harden for Darius Garland, with Harden and the Clippers "aligned" on finding a new home before Thursday. Reports say Donovan Mitchell "would welcome the addition of an experienced ball-handler like Harden" to ease his playmaking load, and "people around the league are watching the Donovan Mitchell situation" as Cleveland weighs a push toward a championship. Merlin notes the math and the mystery. Harden brings elite creation and playoff hunger but no ring, Garland has been up and down while injured, and the Cavs sit fifth in the East at 30-21. If chemistry forms, Cleveland vaults into serious contention. If it does not, the pair could clash rather than click.