Cavaliers predicted to sign $101M 4-time MVP, 4-time Finals champion to pair with James Harden

The Cleveland Cavaliers altered the trajectory of their season and potentially their future when they pulled off a blockbuster trade for James Harden. Since his arrival, the team has played at a higher level, even though the move required parting ways with young star Darius Garland.

“The LA Clippers have traded 11-time All-Star guard James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for guard Darius Garland and a second-round pick, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania on Tuesday. Harden effectively had veto power over any trade because of the nature of his contract. He worked through his exit with the Clippers (23-26) over the past few days, resulting in an outcome both sides were happy with,” ESPN’s Ramona Shelbourne wrote.

The addition not only strengthens Cleveland’s championship hopes this season, but it could also create a pathway for a potential reunion with LeBron James for one final run.

“Cleveland has an excellent roster foundation right now with Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley and Sam Merrill. The possibility of adding James into that mix would certainly make the Cavs arguably the most formidable offense in the NBA. It would also give James the opportunity to go on a year-long retirement tour with the organization that originally drafted him into the league in 2003,” Bleacher Report’s Adam Wells wrote.

All James has made clear about the end of his career is that he wants to compete for a championship. As currently constructed, Los Angeles may not offer the most realistic path to that goal.

“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”

There is little doubt that James would be open to a reunion in Cleveland, though it would likely require him to take a pay cut. The Cavaliers already have a strong roster — one that could become even more dangerous with James in the fold.

While free agency is still some time away, this situation will continue to draw attention until a decision is made. In the meantime, the Cavaliers remain focused on doing whatever it takes to reach the Finals this season — whether or not James ultimately joins them.