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Cavaliers sign Mario Hezonja after missing out on LeBron James

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 8:28 PM

Last updated Jul 26, 2026

Cavaliers sign Mario Hezonja after missing out on LeBron James

Summary

The Cleveland Cavaliers signed former lottery pick Mario Hezonja to a one-year, $2.8 million contract on July 26, 2026, after LeBron James chose to join the Philadelphia 76ers. This signing comes as part of the Cavaliers' contingency plan following their pursuit of James. Hezonja, once the fifth overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, has rebuilt his career overseas, earning MVP honors in Liga ACB last season. The Cavaliers view Hezonja as a low-risk addition to bolster their roster, providing depth around stars like Donovan Mitchell and James Harden while maintaining financial flexibility for future moves.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Cavaliers signed Mario Hezonja after losing LeBron James to the 76ers.
•Hezonja returns to the NBA after successful overseas stints.
•Cavaliers maintain flexibility for future roster moves.
•Hezonja won Liga ACB MVP honors last season.
•Cavaliers aim for another deep playoff run after last season's success.

Latest Updates

8:28 PMYahoo Sports — Cavaliers Sign Former No. 5 Pick After Missing on LeBron James

What they're saying

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The Cavaliers had a backup plan ready after LeBron James chose the 76ers—and they wasted no time putting it into action. The post Cavaliers Sign Former No. 5 Pick After Missing on LeBron James appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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