James Harden’s Impact on the Cavaliers
In a thrilling display at Ball Arena on February 9, 2026, James Harden, now donning the Cleveland Cavaliers jersey, showcased his extraordinary playmaking ability during a matchup against the Denver Nuggets. As the Cavaliers’ point guard, Harden’s impact on the team has quickly become clear, evidenced by his impressive average of nearly nine assists per game through his first six appearances with the franchise, never totaling fewer than seven assists in any contest.
The Cavaliers previously achieved remarkable success, finishing the last season with the third-best offensive rating in NBA history. Although roster changes have occurred since, they still boast a lineup that creates an ideal setting for a talent like Harden. His court vision and ability to deliver pinpoint passes to scorers like Donovan Mitchell, sharpshooters such as Sam Merrill, and high-flying bigs like Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley have invigorated the team’s offense.
Exceptional Plays by Harden
To highlight Harden’s outstanding passing skills, let’s explore some exceptional plays that demonstrate how he is transforming the Cavaliers’ offense:
- Dynamic Positioning: Starting his action in the high post, Harden uses his imposing 6-foot-5, 220-pound frame to establish an advantageous position on the court. This positioning allows him to effectively set up plays, creating opportunities for teammates that wouldn’t normally exist.
- Lead Pass to Merrill: Using a well-timed bounce pass, Harden observes the defense’s movements, delivering the ball to Merrill as he cuts towards the basket.
- Pick-and-Roll Mastery: Harden displayed his prowess with a spectacular behind-the-back pass during a recent play, accurately delivering the ball to a rolling teammate in a narrow window.
- Controlling the Pace: Harden effectively absorbs contact from defenders, allowing him to survey the court and make precise passes.
- Timing and Angles: His deliberate movements create space for Allen in the paint, leading to a successful bounce pass.
- Understated Bounce Pass: Harden cleverly squeezes a bounce pass through defenders, turning a simple play into a challenging feat of skill.
- Over-the-Top Precision: In a standout moment, Harden capitalizes on a defensive mismatch for Mobley, tossing an indictment over the top that results in a dunk.
- Drive and Kick: With a stunning crossover, Harden creates his own space and draws defenders before passing to a shooter in the corner.
- The Lob Pass: Ending with a flourish, Harden executed a perfect lob during transition, showcasing his vision and incredible touch.
As the Cavaliers continue to integrate Harden into their system, his ability to elevate his team through his exceptional passing is becoming a defining feature of their style of play this season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness how his unique skill set will continue to unfold throughout the remainder of the season, with many eager to see further highlights of his extraordinary assists.
For those intrigued by Harden’s newfound synergy with the Cavaliers, a look back at these highlights clearly illustrates why he is considered one of the greatest playmakers in basketball history.
