James Harden turns the Cavs into instant contenders

• The newly acquired Harden looks like a perfect fit next to Donovan Mitchell, and the Cavs at last look like the contenders they were meant to be.

Record: (33-21); Last week: (30-21)

Weekly slate: Win at Los Angeles Clippers (124-91); Win at Sacramento (132-126); Win at Denver (119-117).

The intrigue: The initial shock and disappointment from the fan base over losing Darius Garland has morphed into recognition: The team is simply better than it was last week.

📈 Stat du jour: Harden has played just under 1,200 games across 17 NBA seasons.

• Sunday was just the fifth time he has recorded 22 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and three blocks in a single game.

Zoom out: That statistical feat has only been achieved 15 times by a player in a Cavs uniform: 11 by LeBron James; two by Evan Mobley; one by Ron Harper and now one by Harden.

What's next: A home game tonight against the Washington Wizards — the first at Rocket Arena with Harden, Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis on the roster — and then All-Star festivities in Los Angeles.

🎯 What we're watching: Mitchell will represent the Cavs in both the three-point contest and the All-Star game itself.