The Athletic NBA Daily How Harden has changed the Cavs
Feb 17, 2026
Justin Rowan, Cleveland Cavaliers reporter and co-host of the Chase Down podcast, breaks down how James Harden has altered Cleveland’s offense. Short takes on Harden and Jared Allen’s early chemistry. Quick notes on spacing, Mobley’s role, playoff usage for Donovan Mitchell, defensive concerns, and whether the Cavs’ roster changes make them true title contenders.
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Style Continuity After The Deadline
- The Cavs' deadline moves weren't a radical stylistic shift, they mostly replaced like-for-like roles.
- That continuity raises the chance the roster jells quickly rather than collapsing under a major identity change.
Harden As A Fatigue Reliever
- James Harden provides a steady pick-and-roll creator that can consistently feed Jared Allen and Evan Mobley.
- That should reduce Donovan Mitchell's creation burden and preserve his energy deeper into playoff series.
Cleaner Fourth-Quarter Roles
- Harden creates easier fourth-quarter looks for Donovan Mitchell by initiating different actions that destabilize defenses.
- That turnover of who closes games gives Mitchell fresher, more effective late-game possessions.