In the middle of a contest, the LA Clippers’ franchise superstar, James Harden, had no part in, rumors developed rapidly about a potential trade-deadline swing to the Cleveland Cavaliers. According to insider Chris Mannix, a swap would take place around Harden for Darius Garland, in which the Clippers are overlooking the most significant factor of a blockbuster deal: the fit, which will not work, catching LA by surprise.
Harden is tailor-made for the Clippers. He has the always-available mentality, even if he does not feel well, and within his game, the scoring and playmaking combo he adds to the table is a massive positive next to Kawhi Leonard.
Additionally, the duo has a phenomenal connection. When asked about the rumors following the loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, the two-time champion referred to Harden as someone who would always be a close companion.
Kawhi Leonard on the James Harden trade reports:
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) February 3, 2026
“It’s a surprise… Respect his decision. Or whoever’s decision it is. That’s still gonna be my boy. Trust the front office.” pic.twitter.com/472C09wTEn
Thus, could Garland ever reach these levels on the Clippers? It would be a tough pass, yet all in all, Lawrence Frank should tell the Cavaliers they will need more than just their star point guard.
A perfect point guard fit is not worth the sacrifice of age
The LA Clippers are primarily focused on the age drop between James Harden and Darius Garland. They see a decade of difference, and rightfully so; this is the idea they are stuck on, as Garland relieves the fear of not having a legitimate, young talent in the future.
However, at first glance, the 26-year-old does not seem to have the capacity to meet Harden's standard for the Clippers.
Over the course of the last two seasons, Harden has been LA’s second option behind Kawhi Leonard, played 123 of 131 games, and thrived through a high volume of minutes as a leader for the Clippers.
On the contrary, while Harden elevated from one of the two seasons to the next, Garland declined. He has been less available this season and has regressed across the board in points, rebounds, steals, and all three major shooting splits.
Additionally, Garland’s defense has not improved. If anything, it has worsened: his defensive rating in 2024-25 was 113.4, last on the team, and this season, in 26 games, it has been 117.7, still last on the team.
That said, Garland might be younger, but with a handful of detrimental factors being present, the Clippers would be shocked by the reality of his game if he were traded for. He is not who they think he is, and every factor is something age cannot compensate for.