James Harden Opens Up About Shock Clippers Departure

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James Harden is turning the page on his time with the Los Angeles Clippers, officially addressing his departure and new opportunity with the Cleveland Cavaliers as he continues his pursuit of an elusive NBA championship.

“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,” Harden told ESPN senior NBA insider Ramona Shelburne, reiterating that he didn’t ask for a trade. “Okay, 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 other situations weren’t like that. And that’s why I can respect Steve [Ballmer] and [Lawrence Frank and [Ty Lue] because they didn’t put me in a weird position as much as everybody tried to make it like that.”

The Clippers originally acquired Harden prior to the 2023–24 season, where he immediately elevated the team’s offensive production with elite scoring and playmaking.

During his tenure as primary ball handler, Los Angeles reached the playoffs in consecutive seasons while Harden remained a consistent and reliable contributor.

Despite the on-court success, contract uncertainty played a significant role in the decision to part ways.

Harden signed a two-year, $81.5 million deal, with the final season structured as a player option that only guarantees $13.3 million.

“We had a hell of a two and a half years,” Harden said. “We didn’t reach the goals that we all wanted to reach, but I think we built some great memories, had some great 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.”

In the aftermath of the deal, Harden took to social media to thank LAC – the team where he’s played his third-most games in his career (195) behind the Thunder (220) and Rockets (621).

🤞🏾 @LAClippers pic.twitter.com/V95XARxcLJ

— James Harden (@JHarden13) February 5, 2026

Now joining a Cavaliers roster headlined by Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, Harden believes the move provides a stronger path toward a title.