Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden sustained a non-displaced fracture in his right thumb during the team’s victory against the New York Knicks on February 24, 2024. The injury occurred in the final minutes of the game, leading to concerns about his availability moving forward. X-rays conducted the following day confirmed the diagnosis of a fracture in the distal phalanx, which is located near the tip of the thumb.
As a left-handed shooter, Harden’s injury may not directly affect his shooting hand, but it still raises questions about his overall performance and ability to handle the ball. The Cavaliers have reported that he will undergo treatment and continued evaluation as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks on February 25, 2024. Harden’s status for that game remains questionable.
Since joining the Cavaliers at the trade deadline, Harden has made a significant impact, helping the team secure a record of 6-1. In the seven games he has played for Cleveland, he has averaged 18.9 points and 8 assists per game while shooting an impressive 49.4 percent from the field and 48.8 percent from beyond the arc. His ability to facilitate scoring and create opportunities for teammates has been vital to the Cavaliers’ recent success.
The team management and fans alike will be watching closely as they await updates on Harden’s condition. His absence could pose a challenge for the Cavaliers as they aim to maintain their momentum in the Eastern Conference. With playoffs approaching, every game is crucial, and Harden’s contributions will be missed if he is sidelined for an extended period.
The Cavaliers are set to face tough competition in the coming weeks, and the potential loss of Harden could complicate their efforts to solidify their playoff position. As the situation develops, the team will need to rely on its depth and adaptability to navigate the challenges ahead.
