James Harden makes Cavaliers decision ahead of NBA free agency

James Harden has declined his $42.3 million player option on his contract with the Cavaliers, but he’s likely sticking around in Cleveland.Harden is in talks with the Cavs on a new multiyear deal, ESPN reported Monday, ahead of the start of NBA free agency on Tuesday.“Yes, 100 percent.Definitely want to be here,” Harden said after the Cavaliers were swept by the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals.

“I think we found something.It’s tough ending it not how we wanted to, but I think we found something.”The new deal, which will likely be in the $60 million, 2-year range, according to Fox 8 sports reporter John Sabol, should shave $12 million-$14 million off the Cavaliers’ payroll.Cleveland had the highest payroll in the NBA last season at a record-breaking $228.6 million, and with no major roster moves expected, needs to find other ways to get below the expected second apron line of $222 million.

The Cavaliers acquired Harden this season in a trade involving Darius Garland, a move that proved beneficial as they reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2018.The 11-time All-Star averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds on 46% shooting (43.5% from 3) in 26 games with the Cavs after the All-Star break.Harden averaged 19.2 points, 5.5 assists and 5.1 rebounds on 41% shooting in 18 playoff games this year, though he also averaged 4.7 turnovers a game.

His defense took a lot of flak during the playoff run as well, especially after Jalen Brunson scored 38 points in a historic 22-point, fourth-quarter comeback.Harden was arrested in Houston earlier this month for unlawful carrying of weapons for having a handgun in his vehicle....