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Cavaliers reconsider pursuit of Kuminga and Watson for Harden deal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 3:45 PM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Cavaliers reconsider pursuit of Kuminga and Watson for Harden deal

Summary

The Cleveland Cavaliers may end their pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga and Peyton Watson amid contract negotiations with James Harden. Cleveland has been actively seeking to bolster its lineup with a starting-caliber wing. However, looming deadlines and Harden’s contract situation may force the team to shift its focus. If they cannot finalize a deal soon, the Cavaliers risk missing out on strengthening their roster ahead of the upcoming season, a scenario that would leave them with unmet needs.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Cavaliers pursuing Kuminga and Watson as wing options.
•Contract negotiations stalling with Kuminga and Watson.
•Harden's situation may influence Cleveland's next moves.
•Cavaliers risk leaving significant roster holes if no deals are made.

Latest Updates

8:12 PMYahoo Sports — Cavaliers remain in 'constant communication' with James Harden on new deal and are strongly pursuing Peyton Watson, Jonathan Kuminga
3:45 PMYahoo Sports — Cavaliers may end pursuit of ex-Warriors Jonathan Kuminga, Peyton Watson for James Harden

What they're saying

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The Cleveland Cavaliers have been actively pursuing Jonathan Kuminga and Peyton Watson. There is a possibility they will have to stop going for them if a deal isn't done soon.
— Yahoo Sports