The Cleveland Cavaliers are moving quickly to shape their roster now that LeBron James has committed to Philadelphia, with a new contract for guard James Harden listed as the front-burner item, league sources told ClutchPoints.
Harden expected to stay in Cleveland
According to the report, the Cavaliers never considered letting Harden walk, regardless of James’ choice. The 34-year-old declined his $42.3 million player option in June but did so with the understanding that a two- or three-year agreement would follow. Negotiations are said to be aimed at keeping the club below the league’s second tax apron.
No traction on rumored Kyrie swap
Speculation about a possible Harden-for-Kyrie Irving trade surfaced during the James sweepstakes, but sources indicated the Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks never held substantive talks. Dallas has maintained it does not plan to move Irving.
Kuminga tops external wish list
With James off the market, Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga has become Cleveland’s most prominent target. The 21-year-old is reportedly seeking an annual salary between $14 million and $18 million. Any pursuit would require sign-and-trade cooperation from Atlanta, and veteran guard Dennis Schroder—owed $14.8 million next season and $15.5 million in 2027-28—has been mentioned as potential outgoing salary.
Meleek Thomas’ rise may influence moves
Part of the Cavaliers’ willingness to discuss Schroder stems from the emergence of second-round pick Meleek Thomas, who impressed during Summer League action. Team officials believe the rookie combo guard can claim immediate rotation minutes off the bench.
Other wings on Cleveland’s radar
Cleveland explored a pre-draft trade for Denver Nuggets forward Cameron Johnson, but talks stalled and Denver now intends to keep him. The Cavs also continue to monitor New Orleans Pelicans defender Herbert Jones, though sources describe the Pelicans’ asking price as “exceptionally high.”
While finalizing Harden’s contract appears to be Cleveland’s next step, additional roster activity is expected as the club evaluates multiple trade scenarios.
Source: Hoops Wire
