Cleveland Cavaliers fans got the news they wanted this week as the team made James Harden’s return official. On September 8, the Cavs announced they had re-signed the veteran guard to a multi-year contract sealing a deal first agreed in late August.
Harden chooses Cleveland over bigger short-term money
The 37-year-old declined his $42.3 million player option in June so the front office could create salary-cap space. That patience paid off.
Harden and the Cavaliers settled on a three-year, roughly $97 million contract that includes a player option in the third year and a 15 percent trade kicker.
The lower annual salary helped Cleveland stay near the first apron while adding other pieces.
New look roster ready for another deep run
After arriving from the Los Angeles Clippers at the February trade deadline, Harden averaged 20.5 points and 7.7 assists in 26 regular-season games.
Cleveland went 19-7 with him in the lineup and reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2018. In the playoffs he posted 19.2 points and 5.5 assists across 18 games.
This summer the Cavs used the extra flexibility to acquire young forward Peyton Watson in a multi-team sign-and-trade.
The core of Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen now has added length and athleticism on the wing.
Official team statement simply called it a multi-year deal but league reports confirm the near $97 million figure.
Title chase continues in the land
Harden is entering his 18th NBA season and still chasing his first championship. By finishing this contract he will push past $500 million in career earnings, joining an exclusive group.
With training camp approaching, Cleveland is positioned as a top Eastern Conference contender once again. The Beard is back and the Cavs are all-in on one more serious run.
