Editor’s note: This story has been updated with additional information about tonight’s game.
One of the biggest names in the NBA will make his Cavaliers debut Feb. 7.
The Cavs confirmed that 11-time All-Star guard James Harden, 36, will play his first game alongside Donovan Mitchell and the rest of the Cavaliers Feb. 7 against the Sacramento Kings.
The Cavs had Harden listed as questionable for the game as of 4:45 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, but later confirmed he’d be in the starting lineup.
Harden was acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Darius Garland and a 2026 second-round pick, a swapping of All-Star-caliber guards when healthy. Harden is 10 years Garland’s senior, but the latter’s lingering issues with a toe injury had put his availability in doubt, which no longer aligned with Cleveland’s timeline, particularly as it relates to a wide-open Eastern Conference.
Guards Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, acquired in a trade of De’Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings, made their Cavs debuts in a win against those same Clippers Feb. 4.
When is James Harden’s first Cavaliers’ home game?
The Cavs return home from their long road trip to host Washington in a 7 p.m. game Wednesday, Feb. 11.
What is the Cavs upcoming schedule?
James Harden’s stats
Harden averaged 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists on 41.9% shooting from the floor for the Clippers this season. During a 17-year-career, he has averages of 24.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists on 43.8% shooting.
Harden was the league MVP in 2017-18 and is an eight-time All-NBA selection. He’s also finished second in MVP voting three times.
What is James Harden’s Cavs jersey number?
Harden will continue to wear No. 1, the same number he’s worn with the Clippers and 76ers. He wore No. 13 with the Thunder, Rockets and Nets.
The Akron Beacon Journal sports department can be contacted via email at bjsports@thebeaconjournal.com.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: James Harden plays his first game for Cavs, starting vs. Kings
Reporting by Ryan Lewis, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
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