Ken and Anthony, along with a caller, dig deeper into why fans want James Harden gone despite admitting there's no real replacement available given the Cavs' lack of draft picks and cap flexibility. They argue Harden was actually solid defensively and necessary in heavy minutes during the playoffs, with the criticism mostly stemming from years of disliking him elsewhere. The conversation shifts to Donovan Mitchell's looming extension decision, with Ken saying he's increasingly convinced Mitchell won't sign and that his time in Cleveland could be nearing its end. They close by debating whether trading for Jaylen Brown is even realistic given the picks and assets the Cavs would have to give up.
Cavs Are Stuck With Harden Because There's No Realistic Upgrade

James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives around Mikal Bridges #25 of the New York Knicks \during the first quarter in Game One of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden on May 19, 2026 in New York City.
Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images
The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
The only place to talk about the Cleveland sports scene weekday mornings is with Ken Carman and Anthony Lima from 6-10a! The show guides you through…




