A bombastic deal is being prepared in the NBA, according to the North American press. The Los Angeles Clippers and the Cleveland Cavaliers are discussing a trade that would involve bases James Harden and Darius Garland, according to journalist Chris Mannix, from Sports Illustrated. It is said that negotiations are at an advanced stage. According to Shams Charania, renowned NBA expert from ESPNthe Cavaliers are just one of the teams interested in Harden. The baseman signed a new contract with the Clippers in the summer of 2025, worth a total of 81.5 million dollars (close to €69 M), but has the right to veto a potential exchange, as the contract is technically for one year, plus one year which is the player's option. The 36-year-old veteran missed the Clippers' last two games – against the Phoenix Suns and Philadelphia 76ers – for personal reasons. Harden is averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game this season, with a 41.9% field goal percentage. Garland, 26, has been plagued by injuries this season. He missed the Cavs' first seven games due to toe surgery and has not played since Jan. 16 due to an ankle injury. This season, he has averaged 18.0 points, 6.9 assists and 2.4 rebounds per game, with a shooting efficiency from the field of 45.1%. The deadline for player trades in the NBA this season is February 5th.