Latest on James Harden

James Harden still hasn’t officially re-signed with the Cavaliers. That doesn’t mean anyone should expect a surprise.

ESPN’s Shams Charania said Monday on NBA Today that he fully expects Harden to return to Cleveland in the near future.

Harden declined his $42.3 million player option on June 29, with the understanding that he and the Cavaliers would work toward a new multiyear contract. That remains the plan.

But there’s also a benefit to waiting. By holding off on finalizing Harden’s new contract, the Cavs maintain some flexibility as they explore other moves in free agency and on the trade market.

Cleveland finally has clarity after LeBron James chose the 76ers, and sources have indicated the front office remains active in looking for ways to upgrade the roster.

The Cavs have been linked to Jonathan Kuminga and DeMar DeRozan, among others, and sources have told Hoops Wire that Cleveland has some bigger names on its radar that have yet to be widely discussed.

Harden’s eventual deal is expected to help on that front as well. The sides have discussed spreading his money across multiple seasons, lowering his annual salary and giving the Cavs more breathing room around the luxury-tax aprons.

The Cavs acquired Harden from the Clippers in February for Darius Garland and a second-round pick. He averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds in 26 games with Cleveland.

So Harden waiting shouldn’t necessarily be viewed as a holdup. It may actually be helping the Cavs get some other business done first.