Cavaliers beat Kings 132-126 on Feb. 7, 2026, as James Harden debuts in Sacramento
Cleveland closes late behind Harden and Mitchell
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Sacramento Kings 132-126 on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Golden 1 Center, completing a high-scoring road win highlighted by James Harden’s first game in a Cavaliers uniform.
Harden finished with 23 points and eight assists in his debut, while Donovan Mitchell led Cleveland with 35 points. Center Jarrett Allen added 29 points and 10 rebounds, giving the Cavaliers three 20-plus scorers in a game that featured multiple momentum swings and a tight finish.
How the fourth quarter turned
After the teams traded leads deep into the fourth quarter, Cleveland’s perimeter shot-making and late-game execution were decisive. Harden connected on two key three-pointers in a late stretch as the Cavaliers moved in front, and Cleveland then protected the advantage with free throws in the closing seconds to secure the six-point win.
Sacramento’s production and late push
Sacramento received a 30-point performance from Nique Clifford and 21 points with nine assists from Russell Westbrook. DeMar DeRozan hit a late three-pointer to tie the game at 126-126 with 35 seconds remaining, but the Kings were unable to generate another score after that moment, and Cleveland closed out the final possessions.
What the game indicated about Cleveland’s new look
Cleveland’s rotation reflected a transitional moment: Harden’s debut came immediately after the Cavaliers completed a trade that sent guard Darius Garland to the Los Angeles Clippers. With Harden and Mitchell sharing on-ball responsibility, Cleveland leaned on half-court creation and quick-strike shooting late, while Allen’s efficient scoring and finishing at the rim provided a reliable interior counterweight.
Final score: Cavaliers 132, Kings 126 (Feb. 7, 2026)
Key Cavaliers: Donovan Mitchell 35 points; James Harden 23 points, 8 assists; Jarrett Allen 29 points, 10 rebounds
Key Kings: Nique Clifford 30 points; Russell Westbrook 21 points, 9 assists
The closing sequence featured a tie game inside the final minute, followed by Cleveland’s late scoring and free throws to finish the win.
Next games
The Cavaliers continue their Western Conference road trip with a game at the Denver Nuggets on Monday night, Feb. 9, 2026. The Kings also play Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, at the New Orleans Pelicans.