Cavaliers Must Tread Cautiously With James Harden's Next Contract

BusinessSportsMoneyCavaliers Must Tread Cautiously With James Harden's Next ContractByBryan Toporek,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bryan Toporek covers the NBA for Forbes Sports.Follow AuthorMay 27, 2026, 01:19pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 19: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers in action against the New York Knicks during Game One of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden on May 19, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)Getty ImagesAfter getting swept by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Cleveland Cavaliers now must sift through the wreckage.The Cavs had the NBA's highest payroll this season. They were the only team to finish above the second apron, which means they now can't trade their 2033 first-round pick. And they're already projected to be above the second apron in 2026-27 if James Harden picks up his $42.3 million player option.The good news is that Harden seems unlikely to do so. The bad news is that no matter what contract Harden signs, the Cavaliers will have major questions to answer about their roster this offseason.Harden's Fit In ClevelandEven though the Knicks swept them, Harden told reporters that he "genuinely" thought the Cavs were "the better team." Prior to Game 4, head coach Kenny Atkinson said the Cavs were "two out of three in the expected wins," which was a reference to their shooting numbers being below expectations and the Knicks shooting above expectations.Had the Cavs not blown a 22-point lead in the fourth quarter of Game 1, who knows how the series mi...