Hot mic catches Lisa Salters’ blunt message to James Harden after Cavs’ Game 5 win

James Harden looked highly relieved after the Cleveland Cavaliers survived the Detroit Pistons in overtime in Game 5, 117-113, to move a win away from advancing to the conference finals.

The Cavaliers stunned the crowd at Little Caesars Arena, marking the first time that the road team won in their second-round series. Cleveland has now won three straight games to take a 3-2 lead.

There were anxious moments for Cleveland in the final two minutes, including Harden suddenly struggling from the free-throw line. He had shot 8-of-8 before going 3-of-6 in his final trips to the charity stripe.

After the game, ESPN’s Lisa Salters told Harden that Donovan Mitchell wanted her to ask him about the missed free throws. The former MVP was candid about it.

“I missed all those free throws. I had a bunch of opportunities that I should have made. They didn’t go in, but I’m proud of our team and how we played,” said Harden.

As he was walking off after the interview, Salters was heard sending a message to Harden.

“Work on those free throws,” said Salters.

“Work on your free throws.”

Lisa Salter to James Harden after his postgame interview pic.twitter.com/ahogJgHKGl

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 14, 2026

The 36-year-old Harden finished with a team-high 30 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and three steals, tying the impressive feat of Kobe Bryant.

The 11-time All-Star, however, also has to work on his shooting, as he went 8-of-21 from the field, including 3-of-10 from long distance. He also had six turnovers.

Harden also carried the Cavaliers in Game 4 after recording a double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds on top of three steals.

It will be interesting to see if he follows Salters’ advice in Game 6 at Rocket Arena on Friday.

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