James Harden contract talks with Cavaliers nearing resolution, NBA insider says
· Yahoo Sports
James Harden seems to be making solid progress with the Cleveland Cavaliers for his next contract as the 2026 NBA offseason gets closer to ending.
Harden is preparing for the 18th season of his NBA career, his second with the Cavaliers. Turning 37 at the end of August, he still shines as one of the best veteran stars in the league.
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Harden is currently an unrestricted free agent, having declined his player option for the 2026-27 season. This opened up a chance for Cleveland to pursue LeBron James, who ultimately passed on the in favor of the Philadelphia 76ers.
Cleveland now looks to come to a final decision with Harden on the contract extension. NBA insider Chris Haynes made an appearance on ESPN to discuss the situation, providing insight on options that Cleveland has taken to assist Harden for his next deal.
“The Cavaliers are working through different iterations of a deal, trying to come up with something that’s best for James and also best for them. And to James’ credit, they’re saying that he’s been patient his people has been patient, and I hear that they expect a resolution to come soon for him to re-sign,” Haynes said.
What Lies Ahead for James Harden and Cavaliers
May 25, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) moves the ball while defended by New York Knicks guard Miles McBride (2) in the second quarter during game four of the eastern conference finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)James Harden still has plenty of gas in the tank as he approaches the remaining years of his NBA career. He hopes to continue succeeding as a veteran star with the Cavaliers once he gets his next major contract.
Harden remains highly productive following his 17th year in the league. He averaged 23.6 points, eight assists and 4.8 rebounds per game throughout 70 contests. In the playoffs, he produced 19.2 points, 5.5 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game.
Cleveland finished with a 52-30 record last season, securing the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference standings. They beat the Toronto Raptors and the Detroit Pistons in seven games each, making their first East Finals since 2018. However, their playoff run ended after losing in a sweep to the eventual champions New York Knicks.
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