During his Cleveland Cavaliers debut at Rocket Arena alongside teammates Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, James Harden candidly spoke about the often-discussed topic of NBA player loyalty. The 11-time All-Star and 2017-18 MVP shared his perspective on why he and other top athletes frequently change teams, emphasizing the business side of professional basketball.
“Loyalty” in the NBA: A Business First
Speaking after the Cavaliers’ dominant victory over the Washington Wizards that extended their winning streak to five games, Harden dismissed the emphasis placed on loyalty in the league.
“I mean, it’s basketball and the whole quote-unquote loyalty thing, I think it’s overrated,”
Harden said.
“This is a business at the end of the day, and it’s a lot of money involved and a lot of decisions that has to be made.”
He elaborated on the tough decisions front offices face, explaining that if a player’s performance declines or they don’t fit into long-term plans, teams must act accordingly to maintain their own positions.
“Like, if a player isn’t producing or if you don’t see him in the future, [then the] front office, some of them have to do a job and want to keep their job. So, they feel like they’ve gotta do what’s best to keep their job, and they trade players. Or, if a guy isn’t happy, and he wants to be traded to somewhere else, then it’s a problem.”
Harden’s Career Moves Reflect NBA’s Business Nature
The Cavaliers mark the fifth franchise Harden has suited up for in his NBA career, with four of those changes occurring in the last five years. After spending more than eight seasons with the Houston Rockets, Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets. Following a year and a half, the Nets sent him to the Philadelphia 76ers.
His relationship with Sixers president Daryl Morey, who supported him in Houston, deteriorated, resulting in Harden’s move to the Los Angeles Clippers. Unlike previous exits under strained circumstances, Harden described his departure from the Clippers as amicable and respectful.
“It’s just so many different dynamics that go into it,”
Harden stated.
“This is a business at the end of the day. Not even just the NBA, but, like, people that have normal jobs have those same problems; it’s just not magnified, you know what I mean?”
Balancing Competition and Financial Responsibility
Harden revealed that his focus remains on competing for a championship while ensuring his financial security and that of his family. He described himself as “very smart” for making financial sacrifices during his career, even though those decisions often go unnoticed by the public.
“So, for me, I don’t lose focus of trying to compete for a championship and, financially, making sure that my family is taken care of. Because I’m very smart, and I’ve sacrificed a lot financially, which I don’t get credit on; it don’t get talked about, but I’m fulfilled, and I’m happy with it.”
Goals with the Cavaliers and Contract Outlook
Harden’s current chapter with Cleveland is fueled by two key motivations: winning a championship and receiving fair compensation for his continued high-level play.
“Winning a championship, or at least having a chance to, and then financially getting paid for me being available and playing at the highest level for so long,”
he explained.
“So, this is a business at the end of the day. I feel like players should ultimately do what’s best for them, and the front office does what’s best for them and their owner and their organization. It’s two sides of a story.”
The Cavs and Harden will negotiate contract details following the NBA Finals. His $13.3 million player option for the upcoming season will fully guarantee in mid-July, providing time for discussion on whether he will opt in or restructure his deal.
Confidence in the Cavaliers’ Championship Potential
When asked if he believes the Cavaliers have the necessary pieces to contend for a title, Harden replied without hesitation.
“Yes, I don’t know how many times I’ve really said that throughout the course of my career.”
He pointed to the team’s depth, shooting ability, athleticism, and versatility as key factors in their potential success.
“But given the depth, given the shooting, the athleticism, the versatility that we have, yes.”
