James Harden reportedly reaches decision on his Cavaliers future

James Harden has only been with the Cleveland Cavaliers for a partial season since he came to the team via a blockbuster trade from the Los Angeles Clippers in February. 

But he must already like his time in Cleveland because, according to a new report, he and the Cavaliers are working together on a deal for the future. According to a report from ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, Harden is opting to decline his $42.3 million player option for 2026-27.

"The sides are working through a new multiyear deal together, sources tell ESPN," Charania stated on X on Monday.

What is James Harden's future with the Cavaliers?

While declining a player option may sound like a negative, it often means the player wants the security of a longer contract. That's why Charania states that both sides are working on a multiyear deal for Harden.

In this case, Harden likely wants to get a longer deal with the Cavaliers, and the Cavs want to restructure his contract with the salary cap in mind. Harden averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds on 46 percent shooting in 26 games with the Cavaliers at the end of the season.

"Harden noted he was adjusting on the fly with a new team while playing next to superstar Donovan Mitchell. Cleveland is hoping the adjustment is much smoother with a full season for Harden, who will turn 37 in August, to get (acclimated) to the team," per ESPN.

Harden had an inconsistent playoff showing, but there's no question that he helped the Cavaliers during the postseason, especially when it came to beating the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference semifinals.