James Harden has expressed a strong desire to remain with the Cleveland Cavaliers following their Eastern Conference Finals sweep by the New York Knicks. Reports indicate the team also wants to re-sign the guard despite the playoff disappointment.
Harden told reporters after the Game 4 loss that he wants to return to Cleveland. Brian Windhorst of ESPN stated on Tuesday that Harden is expected to opt out of his $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season and sign a new contract structured to help the team avoid the second apron.
