Kawhi Leonard responded publicly for the first time to the growing trade speculation surrounding James Harden as the Los Angeles Clippers approach Thursday’s NBA trade deadline. The comments came amid reports that the franchise and Harden are actively exploring trade scenarios.
“I have no comment on it. I respect his decision or whoever’s decision it is. That’s it. He’s still going to be my boy. I trust the front office,” Leonard said when asked about the situation, per Farbod Esnaashari.
The remarks follow reporting from ESPN insider Shams Charania, who stated Monday that the Clippers and Harden are aligned in discussions about a potential move. According to Charania, the Cleveland Cavaliers are among the teams expressing serious interest.
Los Angeles enters deadline week ninth in the Western Conference at 23-26, placing the team in the play-in range rather than among the conference’s top contenders. The positioning has fueled internal conversations about roster direction with less than half the regular season remaining.
Leonard has been the Clippers’ most consistent performer during the 2025-26 campaign. The two-time Finals MVP is averaging 27.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while shooting 49.5 percent from the field across 35 games.
Harden has also delivered high-level production in his first season with the organization. The veteran guard is posting 25.4 points and 8.1 assists per game while serving as the primary offensive initiator.
Despite the strong numbers from both stars, the roster has struggled to maintain defensive consistency and late-game execution. Los Angeles ranks outside the top tier in the Western Conference, trailing several teams with clearer championship trajectories.
Charania explained on SportsCenter that Harden’s contract structure has made trade discussions more feasible. The 36-year-old is in the first year of a two-year, $81.5 million deal that includes a player option for next season with a partial guarantee.
That flexibility has allowed the front office to evaluate both short-term competitiveness and longer-term planning. According to Charania, the Clippers are exploring whether younger players or future assets could better align with their timeline.
Cleveland’s interest reflects its own playoff ambitions in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers sit fifth at 30-21 and have leaned heavily on Donovan Mitchell while continuing to develop Evan Mobley and Darius Garland.
Adding a high-usage playmaker with postseason experience could address late-clock scoring needs for a team seeking deeper playoff advancement. Harden’s no-trade clause, however, gives him significant control over any potential destination.
