NBA announcement! Farewell, Harden! Another All-Star center has been given a chance.

Since the All-Star lineup was announced this year, NBA commissioner Adam Silver has designated three players as replacements,namely Leonard (adding to the USA team), Sengun (replacing Alexander on the World team), and Ingram (filling in for Curry on the USA team)...

The most intense public response was about Ingram replacing Curry, because many believed Harden was a better choice.

Up to now this season, Ingram is averaging 22 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 47.2%, 36.4%, and 83.5%. His team, the Raptors, currently hold a 32-22 record, ranking fifth in the Eastern Conference. The last time he made the All-Star team was back in the 2019-20 season when he played for the Pelicans.

As for Harden, he has appeared in 44 games for the Clippers this season, averaging 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 1.3 steals, with shooting splits of 41.9%, 34.7%, and 90.1%. For the Cavaliers, he has played 2 games, averaging 22.5 points, 6 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.5 blocks, shooting 48.3%, 46.7%, and 100%.

In summary, Harden missing out on the 2026 All-Star game is indeed unfortunate, but as an 11-time All-Star, the bigger disappointment would be if he fails to return to the Finals or win a championship this year.

So far, the Cavaliers rank fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 33-21 record, just one game behind the third-place Knicks.

From his two games with the new team, Harden—who already fits well into the system—quickly developed chemistry with his new teammates, especially since the frontcourt finally has a playmaker setting him up.

According to statistics, before Harden’s arrival, All-Star center Allen averaged 13.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game; after Harden joined, Allen’s numbers improved to 25.5 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 1 assist per game.

By the way, the Cavaliers also have another All-Star big man, Mobley, who was the Defensive Player of the Year in the 2024-25 season. He is currently sidelined with a left calf strain. So far this season, Mobley averages 17.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks per game, shooting 30.4% from three with 1.1 triples per game. Since Harden can activate Allen, it’s natural he can also help Mobley improve.

It’s no exaggeration to say that the Cavaliers are currently the most competitive team in the Eastern Conference.