James Harden and the Cleveland Cavaliers looked to extend their winning streak as they hosted the Orlando Magic at Rocket Arena on Tuesday.
The Cavaliers have notched three straight victories, while the Magic were coming off a controversial loss to the Indiana Pacers at home on Monday.
Harden wasted no time in getting hot for the Wine and Gold, sinking a step-back three-pointer over Paolo Banchero at the buzzer to end the first half. Cleveland held a slim lead at the break, 72-68.
It was a vintage bucket for the former MVP, who is widely credited for popularizing the step-back jumper. Many players have copied his trademark move, but of course, no one does it better than the 36-year-old Harden.
He has quickly adjusted to the Cavaliers since the team acquired him via trade with the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Darius Garland. Some were concerned about Harden’s fit, considering Cleveland already has a high-usage star in Donovan Mitchell.
Well, so far, their twosome has worked well. Harden has been willing to take a backseat to Mitchell, while also unlocking Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen even more. Sam Merrill has also benefited from Harden’s playmaking.
The Cavaliers, who are sitting on a 44-27 record, were undermanned against the Magic as Allen (knee), Jaylon Tyson (toe), and Craig Porter Jr. (groin) all sat out.
As of writing, they are still ahead of the Magic in the fourth quarter. Harden has 26 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including four three-pointers. He also has two rebounds, four assists, and one block.