James Harden was dealt to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday after reportedly requesting a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers, but the former MVP has denied ever asking to be moved.
James Harden Enjoyed Playing For Clippers
According to ESPN’s Romana Shelburne, Harden wanted to remain in L.A. and never requested a trade but “didn’t want to feel like I was holding the Clippers up in their future.”
“I wanted them to actually have a chance to rebuild and get some draft capital,” Harden said about the Clippers. “[The Cavaliers] got a very good team, coaching staff, all of the above.
“So as much as I wanted to stay in L.A. and give it a go, I’ve never won one before. As a basketball mind, I think we have a bit better chance.”
Harden said he “didn't want to feel like I was holding the Clippers up in their future. I wanted them to actually have a chance to rebuild and get some draft capital. In Cleveland I see an opportunity to win in the East— they got a very good team, coaching staff, all of the…
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) February 4, 2026
Per Shelburne, Harden denied speculation that he pushed his way off the Clippers.
“That wasn’t the case at all,” he said. “In life, not even just basketball, when things don’t work out, there are ways to end things in relationships without having to crack each other. ‘OK, maybe we just don’t see a future with each other. Maybe we just outgrew each other.’ Whatever the case may be. I feel like our situations weren’t like that.”
However, Harden does have a track record of demanding trades.
In January of 2021, Harden forced his way out of Houston and went on to request a trade from the Brooklyn Nets just 13 months following his trade request from the Rockets.
Harden was then traded to the Philadelphia 76ers at the February 2022 deadline. He played a season and a half with the Sixers before seeking another move and ending up in L.A.
Harden Seeking First NBA Championship
On Tuesday, the Clippers sent Harden to Cleveland in exchange for Darius Garland and a second-round pick. The 11-time All-Star played nearly three full seasons with L.A.
“We had a hell of a 2½ years,” Harden said. “We didn’t reach the goals that we all wanted to reach, but I think we built some great memories, wins and fun moments for all of us.
“At the end of the day, it is a business, and I think both sides got what they wanted, are in a great place and are very happy. I’m excited about Cleveland. I’m still trying to chase my first championship and do whatever it takes to win.”
Although the Clippers are scheduled to host the Cavaliers on Wednesday night, both players will need to pass physicals before the trade is official.
With Harden gone, the Detroit Pistons could trade for Kawhi Leonard ahead of the deadline.
