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James Harden and Cavaliers nearing multiyear deal after free agency decline

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 28, 2026, 12:27 AM

Last updated Jul 28, 2026

James Harden and Cavaliers nearing multiyear deal after free agency decline

Summary

James Harden is expected to re-sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers after declining his $42.3 million player option on June 29. Harden and the Cavaliers have discussed a new multiyear contract that would spread payments over three seasons, potentially lowering his annual salary. He was acquired from the LA Clippers in February and averaged 20.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.7 assists in 26 games with Cleveland. The Cavaliers recently signed forward Mario Hezonja and re-signed center Thomas Bryant while also exploring the possibility of a sign-and-trade for Jonathan Kuminga. The team remains interested in free agent DeMar DeRozan.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Harden declined a $42.3 million player option on June 29.
•Cavaliers are finalizing a new multiyear deal with Harden.
•Harden averaged 20.5 points in 26 games for Cleveland.
•Cleveland signed Mario Hezonja to a one-year contract.
•Cavaliers remain interested in DeMar DeRozan and Jonathan Kuminga.

Latest Updates

12:27 AMYahoo Sports — NBA Insider Shares Latest Update on James Harden's Free Agency

What they're saying

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James Harden and the Cavaliers have been working through a new multiyear deal since he declined his $42.3 million player option on June 29.
— Yahoo Sports

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