Cleveland, New York and Toronto are each navigating key roster decisions as the NBA offseason approaches, league sources told ESPN and Sportsnet.
Cavaliers explore new deal with James Harden
The Cleveland Cavaliers are expected to pursue a multiyear contract with guard James Harden that would reduce his 2026-27 cap hit, according to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst. Harden holds a $42.3 million player option for next season, but a fresh agreement could give the front office flexibility without shedding significant salary.
“Best path to get under the apron without materially salary dumping,” an Eastern Conference executive said to ESPN, adding that Cleveland would likely pay Harden more than he could command on the open market. Team insiders also noted that Harden has established a strong working relationship with head coach Kenny Atkinson.
Knicks weigh extension or trade for Karl-Anthony Towns
The New York Knicks may soon decide whether to extend or move forward Karl-Anthony Towns. The All-Star center has two years left on his contract, with a player option for the final season, making him eligible for an extension this summer. One Eastern Conference executive told ESPN the club is “probably in a spot with KAT that they should either extend him or look to trade him.”
Towns delivered another All-Star campaign and solid postseason performance. If viewed as a long-term fit, league observers believe he might follow Jalen Brunson’s example by accepting slightly less than the maximum to maintain roster depth.
Raptors and Gradey Dick could part ways
Toronto guard Gradey Dick would be open to a trade during the offseason, reports Michael Grange of Sportsnet. The Raptors, managing a tight salary structure, are expected to weigh that option.
Selected in the lottery, Dick flashed early promise before his minutes, scoring and shooting percentages dipped in 2025-26. He will earn $7.13 million in the final season of his rookie contract and becomes extension-eligible this summer.
The three situations underscore how cap constraints are shaping offseason strategies across the league.
Source: Hoops Wire
