Why the Cavs are breaking up their Core Four to chase a championship

*This was recorded before the official trade of Darius Garland for James Harden* In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor dive into first impressions of new Cavaliers acquisitions Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis, two tough, competitive pieces who signal Cleveland’s increasing urgency. From there, the discussion escalates into blockbuster trade scenarios that could reshape the organization’s future — including trading Darius Garland, the longest-tenured Cavalier, to the Los Angeles Clippers for James Harden in a clear win-now swing aligned with Donovan Mitchell’s timeline. The hosts also examine what it would take for Cleveland to pursue the ultimate superstar upgrade: a potential Evan Mobley-for-Giannis Antetokounmpo deal with Milwaukee, and whether sacrificing youth, continuity, and long-term flexibility is the price of entering true championship-or-bust territory. With the Eastern Conference wide open and the trade deadline approaching, the episode breaks down how close the Cavs might be to detonating their Core Four — and whether two stars could be the final push toward a title. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices