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Cavs Say James Harden Has Fractured Right Thumb, Cleared to Play Through Injury

He is questionable for Milwaukee as Cleveland manages short-term availability day to day.

Feb 24, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) celebrates after hitting a three point basket against the New York Knicks during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots a free throw during the third quarter of the game against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on February 9, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Swann/Clarkson Creative/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Cleveland confirmed a non-displaced fracture of the distal phalanx in Harden’s right thumb suffered in Tuesday’s win over the Knicks, affecting his non-shooting hand.
  • ESPN’s Shams Charania reports a hand specialist recommended no surgery and that Harden plans to play through the injury with pain management and protective wrapping.
  • Harden is listed as questionable for Wednesday’s game in Milwaukee, where the Cavaliers will already be without Donovan Mitchell (groin) and Evan Mobley (calf maintenance).
  • The Bucks will again be without Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a right calf strain, softening the matchup but still testing Cleveland’s backcourt depth.
  • Since joining the Cavaliers, Harden has helped the team go 6–1 while averaging about 18.9 points and 8.0 assists, a surge Cleveland aims to preserve as it monitors his status.