James Harden opts out but expects to re-sign with Cavaliers on multiyear contract: Source
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- James Harden declined the $42.3 million player’s option with the Cleveland Cavaliers and will enter free agency, but negotiations are ongoing for a multiyear deal to keep him with the team.
- Harden’s new contract is expected to reduce his salary to $28-$30 million annually, potentially extending up to three seasons, providing the Cavaliers with financial flexibility under the NBA’s salary cap restrictions.
- The Cavaliers acquired Harden in a February trade for Darius Garland, and Harden has expressed a strong desire to re-sign with Cleveland.
- Harden averaged 20.5 points and 7.7 assists in 26 regular-season games for the Cavs, contributing significantly to their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since 2018.
- Despite a subpar shooting performance in the playoffs, Harden’s veteran presence and toughness were viewed as key factors in the Cavs’ deep postseason run, with expectations of improved team chemistry moving forward.
