The Cleveland Cavaliers may face a setback in their lineup after guard James Harden sustained a non-displaced fracture of the distal phalanx in his right thumb during a game against the New York Knicks on February 24, 2024. The injury occurred during the Cavaliers’ victory, and X-rays conducted the following day confirmed the diagnosis.
Despite being a left-handed shooter, the injury could still impact Harden’s performance. As of now, he is listed as questionable for the Cavaliers’ upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks on February 25. The team announced that he will undergo treatment and continued evaluation to assess the severity of the injury.
Harden’s Impact on the Cavaliers
Since joining the Cavaliers at the trade deadline, Harden has made a significant impact on the team’s performance, helping them achieve a record of 6-1. In the seven games he has played since the trade, he has averaged 18.9 points and eight assists while shooting an impressive 49.4 percent from the floor and 48.8 percent from beyond the arc. His ability to contribute offensively has been crucial for the Cavaliers as they seek to strengthen their playoff positioning.
The Cavaliers, who currently rank among the top teams in the league, will be closely monitoring Harden’s recovery process. Should he be unable to play, the team will need to adjust its strategy to compensate for his absence. The extent of the injury and the timeframe for his return remain uncertain as the team evaluates the best course of action.
As the NBA season progresses, the health of key players like Harden will be vital for teams aiming for championship contention. The Cavaliers will hope for a swift recovery as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
