James Harden records 23 points, secures victory in first game with Cavs
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In his debut with the Cavaliers, James Harden netted 23 points, while Donovan Mitchell contributed 35, guiding Cleveland to a 132-126 win over Sacramento on Saturday night, marking the Kings’ 12th consecutive defeat.
Harden was traded to Cleveland from the LA Clippers on Wednesday in exchange for Darius Garland and a second-round draft selection. He recorded a shooting performance of 7-for-13, including 5-for-8 from beyond the arc, along with eight assists.
Jarrett Allen added 29 points and 10 rebounds for the Cavaliers, who have secured victory in eight of their last nine games.
Nique Clifford led Sacramento with 30 points, as the team has not triumphed since their win against Washington at home on January 16. Russell Westbrook contributed 21 points and nine assists for the Kings, who have suffered six consecutive losses at home.
The Cavaliers held a slim lead of 57-55 at halftime, but the Kings managed to take the advantage in the third quarter at 96-93. Mitchell scored 29 of his total points in the second half for the Cavaliers.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
