Prediction: James Harden’s next Cavs contract could come in below $40 million guaranteed

James Harden appears committed to returning to the Cavaliers. The question is what his next contract will look like.

In a recent offseason prediction, Bleacher Report suggested Harden could wind up signing a deal worth less than $40 million in guaranteed money despite holding a player option for the 2026-27 season.

The veteran guard has a $42.3 million option for next year, but many around the league expect him to decline it and negotiate a new contract with Cleveland.

According to Bleacher Report, the Cavs could use Harden’s age and postseason performance as leverage in negotiations while also pointing to the financial restrictions that come with operating above the NBA’s second apron.

The prediction envisions a structure similar to the two-year contract Harden signed with the Clippers before being traded to Cleveland.

Such a deal could help both sides. Harden would receive additional long-term security, while the Cavs would gain valuable financial flexibility as they attempt to keep a championship-caliber roster together.

Recent reporting has suggested Harden may be willing to take less money in order to remain in Cleveland.

The former MVP has repeatedly emphasized that winning is his top priority at this stage of his career.

“I don’t have no pride,” Harden recently said. “I just want to win.”

Granted, free agency remains several weeks away and this all still speculation.

Either way, Harden’s contract situation is shaping up as one of the most important storylines of Cleveland’s offseason.

The Cavaliers would love to keep him. The challenge will be finding a number that works for everyone involved.