As Cleveland leans on a 37‑year‑old James Harden to steer its offense, two of its former point guards are lighting up the league in new colors.
Key points
- James Harden’s early production for Cleveland is modest and below his historical shooting standards.
- Ty Jerome is thriving in Memphis, posting near‑30‑point averages with efficient shooting.
- Darius Garland is contributing a double‑digit scoring and playmaking role for the Clippers.
- The Cavs’ recent OT victory shows promise, but sustained success will depend on Harden’s adaptation and supporting cast.
The Cavaliers entered the 2026‑27 season after swapping their former All‑Star point guard Darius Garland for veteran James Harden, hoping the former MVP would lift the team’s play. After three games, Harden is averaging 15.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 7.0 assists, but his shooting percentages—35.1% from the field, 33.3% from three‑point range and 82.4% from the line—are below his career norms.
Meanwhile, former Cavs guard Ty Jerome, now with the Memphis Grizzlies, has exploded offensively. In four outings he is posting 29.8 points per game on 50.6% shooting, with 37.0% from beyond the arc and an impressive 87.9% from the free‑throw line, while also contributing 6.5 assists and 3.5 rebounds.
Harden’s modest start in Cleveland
Darius Garland, who landed with the Los Angeles Clippers after the trade, is also delivering solid numbers. Over three games he averages 24.0 points and 7.0 assists per contest as the Clippers search for a new identity following the departures of Harden and Kawhi Leonard.
Cleveland’s recent momentum includes a 127‑125 overtime win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Oct. 26, a game that highlighted the team’s need for consistent scoring and efficient shooting as they adjust to Harden’s integration and the loss of their former floor‑generators.
Reader questions
How is James Harden performing for the Cavaliers so far?
Through the first three games, Harden is averaging 15.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 7.0 assists, while shooting 35.1% from the field, 33.3% from three‑point range and 82.4% from the free‑throw line.
What are the recent stats for former Cavs point guards Ty Jerome and Darius Garland?
Ty Jerome is averaging 29.8 points, 6.5 assists and 3.5 rebounds on 50.6% shooting for Memphis, while Darius Garland is posting 24.0 points and 7.0 assists per game for the Los Angeles Clippers.
What was the outcome of the Cavaliers’ latest game mentioned in the report?
Cleveland defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 127‑125 in overtime on Oct. 26.
Source: heavy.com
