James Harden Says Cavs Were the “Better Team” Despite Being Swept by Knicks
James Harden isn’t backing down from his belief in the Cleveland Cavaliers — even after getting swept out of the Eastern Conference Finals. Following the Cavs’ 4‑0 loss to the New York Knicks, Harden told reporters that he still feels Cleveland was the superior team, even if the results didn’t show it.
His comments were striking, not because players lack confidence, but because the series wasn’t close. New York controlled all four games, and Cleveland never found its rhythm. Yet Harden insisted the Cavs didn’t show their “best shot,” framing the sweep as more about missed opportunities than a talent gap.
James Harden’s Bold Claim: “I Do Feel Like We’re the Better Team”
James Harden’s full quote was blunt:
“It was 4‑0, but I don’t think we had a chance as far as our best shot… They dominated us 4‑0. But… I do feel like we’re the better team.”
It’s a rare mix of honesty and contradiction — acknowledging domination while still believing the Cavs were superior. Harden pointed to shot‑making as the biggest difference, saying the Knicks hit both open and tough looks while Cleveland simply didn’t convert.
That explanation may not satisfy fans, but it reflects Harden’s confidence in the roster and the system.
Harden Wants to Return — Even After a Rough Series
Harden also made it clear he wants to stay in Cleveland, saying he “100 percent” hopes to return next season. He has a player option this summer, and his future has been a question mark given his history of short stints and his ongoing chase for a championship.
But his desire to run it back suggests he sees unfinished business — and believes the Cavs can take another step.
His playoff numbers, however, won’t help his negotiating leverage:
- 16.0 points per game
- 3.0 assists
- 4.3 turnovers
- 38.9% shooting
- 17.9% from three
Those struggles raise real questions about whether Cleveland will commit to him long‑term.
Donovan Mitchell Also Wants to Stay
Harden isn’t the only star expressing loyalty. Donovan Mitchell said he “loves it here” and believes the Cavs have “unfinished business.” His long‑term commitment is far more likely, and Cleveland will prioritize keeping him in place.
Mitchell’s stance gives the Cavs stability — something Harden’s future can’t guarantee.
Cleveland’s Offseason: Big Questions Ahead
The Cavs reached their first conference finals since the LeBron era, but the sweep exposed flaws. Harden believes the difference was simply shot‑making, but the front office will have to decide whether that’s true — or whether deeper issues need addressing.
Cleveland now faces a long offseason filled with decisions about:
- Harden’s future
- Roster upgrades
- Offensive identity
Harden may believe the Cavs were the better team, but the scoreboard — and the sweep — say otherwise. The challenge now is proving him right next season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened?
The Cleveland Cavaliers were swept by the New York Knicks on Monday night. James Harden was adamant his team was still better.
Why Is James Harden Trending?
After getting swept by the New York Knicks, Harden said he still believes the Cavs are a better team.
What’s Next For James Harden?
James Harden hopes to stay in Cleveland but it remains to be seen whether the team can make the money work
