Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson spoke about his new teammate James Harden, highlighting the veteran’s underrated defensive abilities. Tyson said, via Associated Press, “The offensive part, nothing’s really surprised me, but defensively, he’s actually pretty good. He got a couple blocks. He’s definitely not what you call a cone.”
Harden, 36, joined the Cavaliers in a February 5 trade from the Los Angeles Clippers, moving in exchange for Darius Garland and a 2026 second-round pick. The move was designed to strengthen Cleveland’s playmaking and offensive firepower following Garland’s injury issues.
In three games with the Cavaliers this season, Harden has averaged 19.3 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.3 rebounds while logging 32.3 minutes per contest. His 42.1% three-point shooting has complemented Donovan Mitchell’s 29-point average, forming a dynamic offensive duo.
Tyson, 23, has been a steady contributor for the Cavs, posting 13.9 points and 5.4 assists per game while shooting 47.5% from deep over 50 appearances. He noted that playing alongside Harden has revealed a side of the veteran few see on film.
The Cavaliers also reshaped their roster at the trade deadline by sending De’Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings for Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, adding depth and defensive versatility to the backcourt.
Cleveland’s recent moves, including the trade of Lonzo Ball to the Utah Jazz, have freed significant cap space, positioning the team strategically under the NBA’s second apron while bolstering talent around Mitchell and Harden.
Defensively, Harden has contributed more than anticipated, helping the Cavaliers maintain their fourth-place standing in the Eastern Conference with a 34-21 record.
