Since the NBA trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers have made strides thanks to key additions including James Harden, Keon Ellis, and Dennis Schroder. Despite losing three of their last four games, Harden’s impact stands out, especially in light of the ongoing comparison between James Harden LeBron comparison sparks among fans and analysts alike.
Before his current thumb injury, Harden had appeared in seven games with the Cavaliers, contributing significantly to six wins. His averages of 18.9 points and eight assists per game underscore his value. Head coach Kenny Atkinson recently praised Harden’s basketball intelligence and passing ability in a statement to the media, placing him in an elite category with one of the game’s all-time greats.
The elite IQ, the elite passing skills. He’s one of the decision makers of all time in my mind. He always makes the right read. He’s in that LeBron territory where he can get you 40 or get 20 assists.
?Kenny Atkinson, Head Coach
This bold comparison highlights Harden’s distinguished career, which includes 11 All-Star selections, an MVP award, and three scoring titles. He also boasts two assist titles and shares a rare distinction with Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan as one of only three players to average 36 points or more in a season. At 36 years old, Harden ranks ninth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, ahead of outstanding figures like Shaquille O’Neal, Stephen Curry, and Hakeem Olajuwon.
While Harden is sidelined, expected to return in early March, the Cavaliers are focused on securing a higher seed in the Eastern Conference. His presence is seen as vital to Cleveland’s postseason hopes and overall success moving forward.
Kenny Atkinson on James Harden:
"The elite IQ, the elite passing skills. He's one of the decision makers of all time in my mind. He always makes the right read. He's in that Lebron territory where he can get you 40 or get 20 assists" pic.twitter.com/NxFhpa52Tx
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 27, 2026
