James Harden signs a new three-year contract with Cleveland Cavaliers

James Harden has reached an agreement to sign a new three-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, valued at 97 million dollars. The deal includes a player option and a trade kicker, a financial clause that guarantees additional compensation for the athlete if he is traded by the franchise. To facilitate this long-term arrangement, Harden officially declined his existing player option worth 42.3 million dollars for the 2026/27 season.

This contract marks a significant milestone in Harden's career, as his total career earnings are now projected to exceed 511 million dollars. He becomes the fourth player in NBA history to surpass the 500-million-dollar mark, joining LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry. Additionally, turning 37 on August 26, Harden becomes only the second player in league history, following LeBron James, to secure over 90 million dollars in guaranteed salary at that age.

Harden joined the Cavaliers last season as part of a trade involving Darius Garland, who moved to the Los Angeles Clippers. The team has opted to retain the veteran guard to maintain his playmaking and scoring presence in their backcourt for the upcoming seasons.