Max Kellerman Apologizes For James Harden, President Trump Comparison

Former ESPN personality Max Kellerman issued a public apology to Cleveland Cavaliers star James Harden this week.

After the Cavaliers blew a 22-point lead against the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Harden received most of the blame due to his brutal performance on defense. According to ESPN Stats, Knicks star Jalen Brunson shot 7-of-11 when Harden was his primary defender. As if that wasn't bad enough, Harden went 5-of-16 from the field with six turnovers.

Kellerman recapped Game 1 between the Cavaliers and Knicks on his "Game Over" podcast. He couldn't help but compare Harden to President Donald Trump.

"Bringing in James Harden to win a championship is like electing Donald Trump to fix your country," Kellerman said.

Two days later, Kellerman apologized to Harden for that remark.

"I shouldn't have said that because it's not fair to James Harden. I did not mean to insult him publicly in a way that was going to go viral," Kellerman said. "It was too severe. I don't think it's as bad as all that. I don't think it's as bad as electing Trump to fix your country but that's the idea. That's the opposite of what you'd do if you're trying to get a certain result."

Cavaliers are in do-or-die mode.

The Knicks currently own a commanding 2-0 series lead as the Eastern Conference Finals shifts over to Cleveland.

If the Cavaliers are going to get back in this series, Harden needs to be better. He's made just 11-of-31 field goal attempts over the past two games. That's not going to cut it at this stage in the playoffs.

The Cavaliers also need role players like Sam Merrill, Max Strus and Dean Wade to step up.

Game 3 between the Cavaliers and Knicks is set for Saturday at 8 p.m. ET.

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This story was originally published May 22, 2026 at 10:13 AM.