James Harden is officially staying in Cleveland after agreeing to a new three-year, $97 million contract with the Cavaliers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The deal ends an intriguing offseason wait for the 36-year-old guard, who delayed his decision while Cleveland explored the possibility of bringing LeBron James back to the franchise.
Although the blockbuster reunion never materialised, the Cavaliers continued to reshape their roster, acquiring young wing Peyton Watson before finally securing Harden’s return.
Harden remains a major part of Cleveland’s plans as the Cavaliers look to make another deep playoff run after reaching the Eastern Conference finals last season.
The new contract also puts Harden in rare financial company. His career earnings are set to reach approximately $511 million, making him only the fourth player in NBA history to surpass the $500 million mark, joining LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry.
Harden will turn 37 on August 26 and, once the contract is officially signed, will become only the second player in NBA history to receive more than $90 million in guaranteed salary at age 37 or older, after James.
The Cavaliers’ offseason is now taking shape, with Harden locked in alongside their revamped roster and Cleveland aiming to return to the NBA Finals.
