Despite a season-ending sweep by the New York Knicks on Monday night, guards Donovan Mitchell and James Harden each signaled they want to remain with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Mitchell Affirms Commitment
“I love it here,” Mitchell told reporters after Game 4, emphasizing that he has no interest in leaving Cleveland. The 29-year-old advanced to the conference finals for the first time in his nine-year career this spring.
Mitchell cannot enter free agency this summer, but he is heading into the final guaranteed season of his contract. He is eligible to sign a four-year extension that would start in 2027-28 and replace his player option for that season.
“I have no doubt that this group can get there,” Mitchell said, adding that the current setback should serve as a learning experience. He apologized to fans for the sweep but promised the team would return “hungry and locked in.”
Harden Expects Return on New Deal
Harden, acquired at midseason, holds a $42.3 million player option for 2026-27 that would carry a partial guarantee of $13.3 million if exercised. Earlier reports indicated he was leaning toward declining the option to negotiate a multiyear contract.
After averaging 16.0 points on .389 shooting with more turnovers (17) than assists (12) against New York, the former MVP still expressed certainty about his future in Cleveland. “Definitely want to be here,” Harden said. “I think we found something.”
Teammates Want Harden Back
Mitchell, noting Cleveland’s deepest postseason run since 2018, said he hopes Harden re-signs. The Cavaliers were eliminated in the first round in 2023 and in the second round in 2024 and 2025.
Financial Picture
Cleveland owns Harden’s Bird rights, allowing the front office to finalize a new deal without salary-cap restrictions. However, the franchise already carried the NBA’s highest payroll this season and operated above the second tax apron. The club’s six other highest-paid players are under contract for 2026-27, keeping costs elevated unless major changes are made.
Source: Hoops Rumors
