No one is immune to the effects of Father Time when it comes to professional sports. Every man slows down eventually, even those who seem to be immortal (like the great LeBron James). And Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden, who is currently nursing a thumb injury that he powered through en route to dropping 22 points on Sunday in a 106-102 win over the Brooklyn Nets, knows that the sports grim reaper is about to come for him someday.

Harden is still playing at a high level though; he might be 36 years of age, but retirement isn't exactly imminent for someone averaging nearly 25 points per game and over eight assists per contest this season. The Cavs star, however, loves basketball so much that he wants to keep going for as long as he can, especially when he still has an ever-elusive championship ring to compete for and, hopefully, win.

“I know [retirement is] coming soon. Hopefully, later than soon, but it’s a reality. Everybody has to go through this at some point. Just trying to continue to keep my body in shape and play well. We’ll see what happens in the next few years. Take one game at a time and cherish the moments,” Harden said, via Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

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James Harden and the Cavs' last hurrah at a title?

Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) celebrates after hitting a three point basket against the New York Knicks during the second half at Rocket Arena.
Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

The Cavs know that their title-contending window is short so instead of risking it on Darius Garland's health, they went out and acquired Harden, who is over 10 years Garland's senior.

Harden has dealt with his fair share of injury troubles, suffering through hamstring woes in recent years, but he's been mighty durable and he's been very dependable, especially during the regular season. In the playoffs, of course, is where Harden will be tested, and whether or not he could be a part of this team that's looking to finally get over the hump.