What happened: The contract includes a 2028-29 player option and a trade kicker, according to [NBA.com](https://www.nba.com/news/james-harden-cavaliers-free-agency). Harden declined his $42.3 million option for 2026-27 in June before negotiating the new pact.
Why it matters: The deal gives Cleveland contract certainty at guard entering 2026-27. The option gives Harden control over the final season, while the trade kicker could raise the cost of a future trade.
By the numbers: Harden made 215 three-pointers in 2025-26, ranking 15th in the NBA, while recording 20 double-doubles and two triple-doubles, according to the [Cavaliers' announcement](https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/cavaliers-officially-sign-james-harden-182059837.html).
What to watch: Training camp will provide the first look at Harden's role in Cleveland's 2026-27 rotation.