We know James Harden likes Donovan Mitchell, but what does he think about the rest of the players on the Cleveland Cavaliers?
James Harden was interested in getting traded to the Houston Rockets when he knew he wanted to leave the Los Angeles Clippers, according to Ramona Shelburne of ESPN.
However, the Rockets weren't interested in reuniting with Harden, so the All-Star's reps contacted the Cleveland Cavaliers about their interest in a trade, per Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com.
Harden wanted to play with Donovan Mitchell and "loves" the roster in Cleveland.
Harden is averaging 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists per game this season while shooting 41.9% from the field, 34.7% from beyond the arc and 90.1% from the free-throw line. He's one of the top scorers and passers in the NBA despite being 36.
The 2018 MVP with the Rockets, Harden is making $39.4 million this season, with $13.3 million of his $42.3 million salary for next season guaranteed. Harden had sought more security in negotiations with the Clippers last offseason, but Los Angeles declined to offer him a longer-term deal because of his age and an organizational prioritization of long-term flexibility.
“I wanted them to actually have a chance to rebuild and get some draft capital,” Harden said. “I see an opportunity to win in the East. They 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.”
The Cavaliers now have a "Big 4" of Harden, Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Harden is still searching to win his first NBA championship, while Mitchell, Allen and Mobley have never advanced past the second round of the playoffs.
Harden made the NBA Finals back in 2012 with the Oklahoma City Thunder, who lost to the Miami Heat in five games.
It will be fascinating to see how Harden and Mitchell mesh. Both players are ball-dominant players and there is only one ball on the court. Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson will have to get creative with his offensive sets.
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