James Harden is staying in Cleveland. The 11 time NBA All Star has agreed to a three year, $97 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, giving the veteran guard long term security as he enters his 18th NBA season. The agreement reportedly includes a player option for the 2028-29 season and a trade kicker.
Harden’s new contract comes after he declined a $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season. Rather than take the one-year option, Harden chose to pursue a multiyear commitment, and Cleveland ultimately became the team willing to give him that opportunity.
The Cavaliers acquired Harden from the Los Angeles Clippers at the February trade deadline in a deal that sent All Star guard Darius Garland to Los Angeles. Harden quickly became an important part of Cleveland’s offense, providing veteran leadership, playmaking and another scoring option alongside Donovan Mitchell. During the regular season, Harden averaged 20.5 points and 7.7 assists in 26 games with Cleveland.
The deal also keeps Harden with a Cavaliers team that reached the Eastern Conference Finals last season. Cleveland has continued to make moves around its core, including acquiring forward Peyton Watson, as the franchise looks to take another step toward championship contention.
For Harden, the contract represents another opportunity to chase the first NBA championship of his career. At 36 years old, the former MVP remains one of the league’s most accomplished offensive players. Cleveland is betting that his experience and ability to create shots for himself and his teammates can help push the Cavaliers closer to their ultimate goal.
Leave a Comment