James Harden, Clippers have been discussing split for weeks

The Clippers were reportedly caught off guard when James Harden made it known he wanted out, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.

Publicly stunned or not, this clearly didn’t come out of nowhere. Siegel and ClutchPoints colleague Tomer Azarly report the two sides have been discussing a possible split for weeks.

And yes, Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland remains very much on the Clippers’ wish list.

ESPN’s Shams Charania previously reported that Harden and the Clippers are working together to find a deal before Thursday’s deadline.

The Cavs have emerged as the frontrunner, though they’re not alone. Harden wants a contender, and Cleveland checks that box.

Per Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports, Harden’s contract may be driving some of this. He holds a $42.32 million player option for 2026–27, but only $13.32 million of that is guaranteed. That flexibility cuts both ways.

From Cleveland’s side, Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated reports the Cavs are seeking draft compensation to move Garland, ideally a first-round pick or swap.

The Clippers, unsurprisingly, have pushed back on that ask.

After Monday’s loss to Philadelphia, Clippers coach Tyronn Lue didn’t address specifics but made one thing clear, per Ramona Shelburne of ESPN. Harden “means a lot” to the organization.

That may be true. But at this point, it also sounds like both sides are preparing for what comes next.