Cleveland Cavaliers Logo (Image Credits: Imagn)

Cleveland Cavaliers Expected to Keep Veteran Superstar No Matter How Playoffs End

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Kenny Nosay | Last updated May 18, 2026 12:53 AM ET

The Cleveland Cavaliers are having a tough run in this year’s postseason in the hopes of coming out on top of the East. But no matter the outcome, they want to keep James Harden at all costs.

Harden, who came via trade from the Clippers in February, has become the steady presence the Cavs needed. While he’s struggled with his shot in the playoffs, his contribution to other parts of the game has been visible. He has a $42 million player option this offseason, which he is expected to decline. And the Cavs would want to extend him if he does so.

“James Harden is expected to sign a multiyear deal with the Cavaliers this summer, no matter how this playoff run unfolds,” per Brian Windhorst.

James Harden is expected to sign a multiyear deal with the Cavaliers this summer no matter how this playoff run unfolds, per @WindhorstESPN pic.twitter.com/F7BGPpXIZN
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) May 17, 2026

This is a logical approach by the Cavaliers. The team wants to see how Harden plays for them with a full training camp under his belt. Plus, with Donovon Mitchell also on the roster, a Harden-Mitchell duo is arguably one of the best in the East.

Cleveland Cavaliers Need Prime James Harden in Game 7 Against Detroit

As mentioned above, Harden’s shot has not been falling as hoped, especially in Cleveland’s second-round series versus the Pistons. But it’s not all bad for the one-time MVP, though. He powered the team in a game five overtime win with 30 points, eight rebounds, and six assists.

James Harden (Image Credits: Imagn)

While Donovan Mitchell is the undoubted leader of the Cavaliers, Harden offers a unique veteran presence that this team has been missing since their rise in the Eastern Conference a few years ago. Should they win game seven in the second round, Cleveland needs to play efficiently, including James Harden.

If the veteran guard finds his shot, then many are banking that it’s the Cleveland Cavaliers who will play the New York Knicks in the East Finals this year.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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