NBA Trade Shocker: Cavaliers Land James Harden in Massive Three-Team Deal
The NBA trade landscape just shifted dramatically with a monumental three-team deal sending shockwaves across the league! The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a championship statement by acquiring superstar James Harden, along with Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, in a move designed to elevate their contention.
Key Trade Highlights:
- Cleveland Cavaliers land James Harden, Keon Ellis, and Dennis Schroder, significantly upgrading their roster while shedding salary and luxury tax.
- Lonzo Ball is traded to the Utah Jazz, who are expected to waive him, paving the way for his free agency.
- The Atlanta Hawks add interior strength by acquiring center Jock Landale from the Jazz.
- Utah secures two future second-round picks in the complex transaction, a clear move towards asset accumulation.
Cavs Make a Championship Statement: Welcome, Harden!
This is a game-changer for Cleveland. The addition of James Harden, along with Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, signals a clear intention to compete at the highest level. The move isn't just about talent acquisition; it's a shrewd financial play, allowing the Cavs to shed considerable salary and luxury tax commitments.
For years, Cleveland has been building, and now, with Harden joining their core, they instantly elevate into a prime contender. This trade drastically reshapes their backcourt and offensive firepower, setting the stage for an electrifying second half of the season.
Lonzo Ball's Uncertain Future: From Cavs to Free Agent
In the intricate dance of this three-way deal, Lonzo Ball is on the move from Cleveland to the Utah Jazz. However, his stay in Salt Lake City is expected to be brief, as reports indicate the Jazz intend to waive him, clearing the path for Ball to enter unrestricted free agency.
Ball joined the Cavaliers last offseason in a trade for Isaac Okoro, hoping for a fresh start. His tenure in Cleveland saw him average 4.6 points, 4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 20.8 minutes per game this season.
This marks another chapter in a career plagued by injuries. After missing two full seasons (2022-23, 2023-24) with a debilitating left knee injury that required a meniscus and cartilage transplant, Ball showed glimpses of his former self. He averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 35 games during the 2024-25 season but again faced setbacks with a sprained right wrist.
The 28-year-old guard, drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017, now faces a crucial decision. With the March 1 playoff eligibility waiver deadline looming, teams will surely assess the potential of a healthy Lonzo Ball to bolster their rotations.
Hawks Bolster Frontcourt with Jock Landale
The Atlanta Hawks are making their own strategic move, acquiring veteran center Jock Landale from the Utah Jazz. Landale, who had just arrived in Utah via the Jaren Jackson Jr. trade earlier this week, brings size and interior presence to Atlanta.
In his fifth NBA season, Landale has been enjoying a career year, posting averages of 11.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists. This addition provides the Hawks with valuable depth and a reliable big man who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
