James Harden will continue to play for the Cleveland Cavaliers, as the two sides have reached an agreement on a new three-year contract worth a total of $97 million.
"The Beard’s" new deal includes a player option, as well as a trade kicker. The latter term is a financial clause included in a player’s contract that offers him additional money in the event he is traded. Simply put, if Harden is traded by the Cavaliers, he will be entitled to additional financial compensation, in accordance with the terms agreed upon in his contract.
The NBA superstar had the option to exercise a $42.3 million option for the 2026–27 season, but he decided to decline it, paving the way for him to sign a new multi-year contract with Cleveland.
Harden joined the Cavaliers last season as part of a trade that sent Darius Garland to the Los Angeles Clippers. His presence added an experienced playmaker and perimeter scorer to the team, and Cleveland has now chosen to keep him on its roster for the coming years.
Under the new deal, Harden remains in Cleveland and is expected to be a key part of the team heading into the new season, as the Cavaliers aim to compete for the top spots in the Eastern Conference.
*photo source: AP
