Kawhi Leonard Reacts to James Harden Trade Rumors in New Video After Clippers Loss
Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard didn't expect to see teammate James Harden linked in trade rumors to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
ESPN's Shams Charania reported Monday night that Harden and the Clippers "are working through whether the sides can find a deal by Thursday's NBA trade deadline." According to The Athletic, Cavs guard Darius Garland is one candidate to go the other way in a swap with Cleveland.
Following Monday's 128-113 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, Leonard told reporters his relationship with Harden wouldn't be affected by a trade, and he trusts the front office to make the best decision:
When the Clippers started 6-21, the futures of both Leonard and Harden were a regular source of discourse. Los Angeles has since stabilized a bit, with a 23-26 record good enough to put the team in a Play-In Tournament position.
That seemingly solidified the likelihood of Leonard and Harden sticking around through the deadline.
However, The Athletic reported that Harden's contract "is playing a pivotal role" in his willingness to explore new destinations. The 11-time All-Star has a $42.3 million player option for 2026-27, and the Clippers might be privately balking at committing to him beyond that.
Leonard has seen enough to this point in his career that he can't be totally shocked Harden might be on the way out.
Harden's reputation precedes him as well. The 36-year-old has forced his way out multiple times before, so why should it be any different with Los Angeles?
And while the Clippers' performances have improved, they're still a long way off from being a serious contender. Exchanging Harden for a younger guard who's signed for two more seasons makes sense.
Should the trade come together, it will naturally lead fans to wonder whether Leonard could be on the way out next, whether he walks as a free agent in 2027 or gets dealt before that.
