James Harden trade rumors tracker: Latest news on Cavaliers, Hawks, other potential destinations for Clippers star

The vibes surrounding the Los Angeles Clippers have improved considerably since their disastrous start to the season, but major change might be afoot.

Former MVP guard James Harden reportedly wants to be traded ahead of Thursday's deadline, and the two sides are working to find a deal that would end their partnership after less than three seasons. Harden has a no-trade clause, so he has some control over where he might be finishing his 17th NBA season.

This isn't the first time Harden has sought a change of scenery. His time with the Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers ended with a trade request, and his stint with the Brooklyn Nets ended with a trade that he reportedly told the franchise he preferred despite never formally requesting a move.

Here are the latest trade rumors surrounding Harden as the deadline approaches.

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James Harden trade rumors

Draft picks an obstacle in Clippers-Cavaliers talks

• Date: Feb. 3
• Source: Sam Amick

While the Clippers and Cavaliers have had discussions about a potential Harden deal, Cleveland's push for the Clippers to include "significant draft pick compensation" has been an obstacle for the two teams, The Athletic's Sam Amick reports.

Clippers' plans for 2027 housecleaning a factor in Harden decision

• Date: Feb. 3
• Source: Sam Amick

As many try to make sense of Harden's apparent trade request, The Athletic's Sam Amick reports the Clippers' plan of "clearing their salary cap books for the summer of 2027" was a factor in the 11-time All-Star's decision to try to move on.

Harden interested in Hawks, Timberwolves

• Date: Feb. 3
• Source: Jake Fischer

Harden has "eyed Minnesota and Atlanta" as two potential next destination, Jake Fischer reports, but neither team is expected to pursue a deal for the former MVP ahead of the deadline.

Clippers, Harden working to find trade

• Date: Feb. 2
• Source: Shams Charania

Harden appears to want out of Los Angeles, as he and the Clippers are "working through whether the two sides can find a deal" ahead of Thursday's deadline, ESPN's Shams Charania reports. Harden has a no-trade clause, so he holds power over where he might go.

Cavaliers, Clippers have had 'advanced' talks on Harden deal

• Date: Feb. 2
• Source: Chris Mannix

The Clippers and Cavaliers have had "advanced" talks on a deal that would center on Harden and Darius Garland ahead of the trade deadline, according to Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix. Harden sat out Monday's game for "personal reasons."

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James Harden contract

Harden is in the first year of a two-year, $81.5 million deal with the Clippers, but he can opt out of the contract in the summer by declining a $42.3 million player option.

Whether Harden plans to opt out or work out a new deal with a new team isn't clear, but as he approaches his age-37 season, any team that acquires him will do so knowing he isn't a long-term solution.

Harden's next team will be his fifth since the start of the decade, and he is much closer to the end of his career than the beginning, even if he still has plenty of short-term upside.