James Harden has reached a new agreement to stay in Cleveland. The 36‑year‑old guard signed a three‑year contract valued at $97 million, which includes a player option for the 2028‑29 season and a trade kicker, according to two sources familiar with the negotiations.

Harden turned down his $42.3 million player option for the 2025‑26 season but indicated after the Cavaliers were swept in four games by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals that he wanted to return. He also asked to wait until the team completed a few roster moves before finalizing the new deal.

Season outlook

Entering his 18th NBA season, Harden averaged 10.7 points and 1.7 turnovers per game in 26 regular‑season contests for Cleveland after being acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers for Darius Garland on Feb. 4. In the postseason, his scoring rose to 19.7 points per game, but turnovers also increased to 4.7 per game, with five or more turnovers in ten of Cleveland’s 18 playoff games. Defensive struggles were also noted.

Cleveland’s projected starting lineup features Harden alongside All‑Star Donovan Mitchell, 2025 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley, center Jarrett Allen and rookie forward Peyton Watson, who was added in a four‑team trade on Wednesday.

Legal matter resolved

Harden’s recent legal issue was resolved earlier this month. He had been arrested on June 13 in Houston on a misdemeanor charge of unlawful carrying of a weapon in a motor vehicle. The charge was dismissed after he completed an alternative‑resolution program in Harris County.

The new contract keeps Harden in Cleveland through at least the 2027‑28 season, giving the Cavaliers continuity at the point guard position as they look to build on their recent playoff run.

Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.