NBA Rumors: Cleveland Cavaliers' Plan with James Harden

Harden's immediate impact has convinced the franchise to consider his long-term future. As Ashish Mathur reports on Cavaliers Nation, the club's intention is to renew the player once the season concludes. It is anticipated that Harden himself will decline his player option for the next season and sign a new deal with Cleveland, who acquired him from Los Angeles on February 4.

The player's current contract includes an option valued at $42.3 million for the next season, with only $13.3 million guaranteed. In this scenario, both parties could agree on a two-year extension worth $75 million, additionally including a player option for the 2027-28 campaign.

Immediate Performance on the Court

In his initial games with the Cavaliers, Harden is averaging 20.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game, with a notable 45.2% accuracy from beyond the arc. This performance backs the franchise's commitment to a player with a top-tier resume: an eleven-time All-Star and former league MVP.

Despite his illustrious individual career, Harden's main shortcoming continues to be in the postseason. Throughout his 17-year career, he has not been able to replicate his success at the highest competitive level. Since leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2012, he has only advanced past the second round of the playoffs twice and has never led a team to the NBA Finals as a starter. In his 2012 appearance, he came off the bench behind Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.

Now, teaming up with Donovan Mitchell, the Cavaliers are confident that Harden can finally take that definitive step and break his historical postseason barrier. The franchise is willing to make a strong investment in this initiative.