Harden Fractures Right Thumb, Listed Questionable for Wednesday vs. Bucks After 109-94 Win
James Harden suffered a fractured right thumb during the Cleveland Cavaliers' 109-94 win over the New York Knicks, and Harden is undergoing further evaluation while being listed as questionable for Wednesday's game against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Harden's injury and current status
The team's medical staff performed an initial examination on Harden before sending him for X-rays on Monday, which revealed the extent of the fractured right thumb. The Cavaliers announced on February 25, 2026 that he is undergoing further evaluation and is listed as questionable for the upcoming game against the Bucks. It is unclear when he sustained the injury.
How the injury was discovered
The fracture was discovered after Tuesday's 109-94 win over the Knicks. The news followed a performance in which Harden scored 20 points and played 32 minutes during that contest. Because the timing of the injury is unclear in the provided context, the sequence of events remains partially unspecified.
Medical approach: no surgery, plan to play through it
The 36-year-old intends to play through the injury. He will not undergo surgery on the thumb and plans to try to gut it out, potentially wearing a wrap on his injured thumb. It is unclear whether Harden will miss time due to the issue; it is possible he could sit out Wednesday's game against the Bucks, but there remains a chance he could return to the court soon.
On-court context: performance since joining the Cavs
Harden, an 11-time All-Star who shoots left-handed, was acquired by the Cleveland Cavaliers from the Los Angeles Clippers at the NBA trade deadline. Since joining the Cavaliers, Harden has seen a slight decline in his numbers and is averaging 18. 9 points with his new team. The team has gone 6-1 since the trade and is tied for third place in the Eastern Conference.
Immediate implications for Wednesday vs. Bucks
With Harden listed as questionable for the Wednesday game against the Bucks, the Cavaliers' short-term rotation and game plan could be affected depending on the outcome of further evaluation. The team will monitor Harden's condition and determine availability closer to tip-off; given the stated intention to play through the injury and the decision against surgery, his participation remains possible but not confirmed.
What to watch next
- Final availability: Whether Harden is cleared to play in Wednesday's game versus the Bucks.
- Injury management: Whether Harden appears with a wrap on his injured right thumb if he plays.
- Team continuity: How the Cavaliers maintain momentum after a 6-1 start since the trade if Harden is limited or absent.
Recent updates indicate Harden is being evaluated and his status could evolve as the Cavaliers receive additional medical information.
