James Harden and the Cleveland Cavaliers find themselves in a difficult position, trailing the Detroit Pistons 2-0 in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Their union was expected to solve existing problems, but the addition of Harden to the Cavaliers has not elevated them to championship contention.
Harden’s Inconsistent Playoff Performance
Harden’s availability has not been the issue, but his playoff performance has been inconsistent compared to his regular-season form.
Harden has nine field goals and 11 turnovers in Cleveland’s two losses to Detroit. This mirrors a pattern seen throughout his 17-season postseason career, spanning six teams.
The Cavaliers traded Darius Garland for Harden. The motivation behind the trade was the unreliable availability of Garland, who performed well when healthy down the stretch for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Cavaliers’ Looming Roster Decisions
Barring a comeback against the Pistons, the Cavaliers are on track to lose in the second round of the playoffs for the third consecutive year. They have a roster that includes Mitchell, Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.
The Cavaliers can no longer convince themselves that minor tweaks to the roster are all they need to contend.
- Harden holds a $42.3 million option for next season.
- Mitchell is up for a maximum contract extension this summer.
Harden presumably orchestrated his way to Cleveland in search of a new contract, but how could the Cavs possibly justify giving him one?
Garland’s Departure and Future Implications
They have already lost Garland, who looks to be a franchise cornerstone for the Clippers. Lose him, though, and you lose the only real asset you gained in return for Garland.
Mitchell is up for a maximum contract extension this summer, when he will only have one guaranteed year left on his current deal. He holds a $53.8 million option for the 2027-28 seas