James Harden, Cavaliers close in on new deal while keeping cap space in mind
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The Cleveland Cavaliers and James Harden are putting the final touches on a contract that appears to be more cooperative than contentious, league sources told HoopsHype.
According to the report, representatives for the 11-time All-Star and the front office are crafting an agreement that both rewards Harden and protects the organization’s future payroll. Talks have centered on two- and three-year options, and all indications are that Harden intends to stay in Cleveland.
The deliberate pace of the negotiations is partly linked to the Cavaliers’ ongoing search for another wing. Cleveland recently contacted the Denver Nuggets about restricted free agent Peyton Watson and also examined sign-and-trade possibilities for Jonathan Kuminga, sources said.
Denver is said to be holding out for at least one first-round pick plus a proven rotation player in any Watson deal, a price that has cooled interest around the league. As they survey the market, the Cavaliers could dangle the expiring contracts of Max Strus and Dennis Schroder, along with future draft assets.
While roster upgrades remain on the table, the Harden contract talks are described as approaching the finish line.
Source: Hoops Wire
