New James Harden Contract Rumors Surface Ahead of Cavs vs. Pistons Game 7 in NBA Playoffs
The Cleveland Cavaliers and star guard James Harden may have a handshake agreement on a new deal as he's eligible for free agency this summer.
ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported Sunday that "there is an understanding that the Cavs plan to work out a new deal to retain Harden." The NBA insider added the 11-time All-Star likely would've resisted a move to Cleveland without those reassurances.
"No matter how this playoff run unfolds, Harden, who has been inconsistent in the postseason again, will likely be coming back to Cleveland this summer on a multiyear deal," per Windhorst.
Beyond Harden's obvious value on the court, Windhorst noted a longer contract could help the Cavaliers lower the annual cost a bit, which is important when they're above the second apron of the luxury tax. He has a player option worth $42.3 million for 2026-27.
Cleveland's attempts to build trust with Harden went past any initial understandings with his future.
"Before the trade with LA was even finalized, the Cavs had taken steps to establish a strong bond with Harden, including coach Kenny Atkinson, who has worked to make him a partner from their first conversation," Windhorst wrote. "... That's a dynamic Atkinson has intentionally cultivated, knowing that when Harden has had good relationships with his coaches, it has led to some of his best play. It was that way with Mike D'Antoni when both were with the Houston Rockets."
Of course, Harden knows handshake agreements aren't binding.
During the 2023 offseason, his relationship with Daryl Morey disintegrated completely and he publicly called the longtime executive a "liar." Many at the time assumed the dynamic guard was miffed at the Philadelphia 76ers supposedly going back on their word about what they'd pay him at the next available opportunity. Instead, Harden reportedly told officials during an NBA investigation his remarks were in reference to a trade demand.
In general, the 36-year-old comprehends there aren't any sure things at this point in his career when it comes to contracts. He has signed a succession of two-year deals because teams were wary of tabling a full max offer.
That's presumably going to be the case with Cleveland because a lot of the existing concerns with Harden are showing up at the worst time. In the Cavs' 115-94 loss to the Detroit Pistons, he had 23 points, seven rebounds, four assists, four steals and eight turnovers.
Should Harden have yet another disappearing act in an elimination game, fans are bound to ask whether it's worth it to keep him around.
Therein lies the dilemma.
The trade probably doesn't happen in the first place without discussing his next payout, but following through on whatever arrangements were made can become less palatable when the rubber meets the road.
