Cavs Rumors: James Harden, Jonathan Kuminga, Meleek Thomas, Herb Jones

The Cavaliers’ offseason can finally move forward now that LeBron James has made his decision.

That starts with James Harden.

The Cavs never intended to move on from Harden regardless of James’ decision, sources told Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.

Harden declined his $42.3 million player option in June, but did so with the expectation of working out a longer-term agreement with Cleveland. Siegel reports that a new two- or three-year contract could be completed soon, with the structure designed in part to help the Cavaliers stay below the second apron.

That also puts to rest one of the more interesting rumors from the LeBron sweepstakes.

James was believed to have interest in potentially reuniting with Kyrie Irving, leading to speculation about a Harden-for-Irving trade. But Siegel reports that the Cavs and Mavericks never actually discussed such a deal. 

As Hoops Wire reported previously, Dallas never intended to move Irving.

Kuminga remains one to watch

With James headed to Philadelphia, Jonathan Kuminga remains perhaps the most notable available target for Cleveland.

Siegel reports that Kuminga is seeking somewhere in the range of $14 million to $18 million annually. The Cavs would need cooperation from Atlanta to acquire him in a sign-and-trade.

Dennis Schroder remains an obvious name to watch in such talks. He’s owed $14.8 million next season and $15.5 million in 2027-28.

Interestingly, Cleveland’s willingness to consider moving Schroder may have something to do with Meleek Thomas.

The second-round pick was one of the stars of Summer League, and Siegel reports the Cavs believe Thomas could contribute significant minutes immediately as a combo guard off the bench.

Cavs have explored other wings

Kuminga isn’t the only forward Cleveland has investigated.

Sources told Siegel that the Cavaliers explored a potential trade for Nuggets forward Cameron Johnson before the NBA Draft. Denver was listening at the time, but no agreement materialized, and the Nuggets are now believed to prefer keeping Johnson.

Cleveland also continues to have interest in Pelicans defensive standout Herbert Jones, per Siegel.

There’s a problem there: New Orleans’ asking price remains described as “exceptionally high.”

That fits with what sources have told Hoops Wire since James chose Philadelphia. The Cavs have several notable names on their radar, including some that haven’t surfaced publicly.

So while Harden’s return appears to be the next order of business, Cleveland’s offseason may not be finished there.