James Harden and Donovan Mitchell both made it clear they want to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers next season. Harden said after Monday’s Game 4 loss to the New York Knicks that he “100 percent” wants to be back in Cleveland. Mitchell added that he “loves it here” and has no plans to leave.
The 2023-24 season was a rollercoaster for the Cavaliers, who reached the Eastern Conference Finals but were swept by the Knicks. Harden’s impact was mixed, averaging 10.3 points per game in the series with a low shooting percentage. His 12-point, four-rebound performance in Game 4 was one of his most productive of the playoffs.
Harden has a player option worth $42.3 million for the 2024-25 season. That gives him and the Cavaliers flexibility. While a long-term contract is expected to be on the table, his playoff performance could influence the final terms.
Mitchell, who is entering his fifth season in Cleveland, is eligible for a contract extension on July 7. The 2023-24 season showed his resilience, as he averaged 25.5 points per game in the regular season and 21.5 in the playoffs. His leadership helped the team reach the Finals for the first time since 2018.
Cleveland’s front office has yet to announce its full plans for next season, but both players’ commitment signals stability. The team is built around a core of Mitchell, Harden, and Darius Garland, with the goal of making another deep playoff run.
The Cavaliers finished the regular season with a 45-37 record, good enough for the No. 2 seed in the East. Their defense ranked in the top 10 all season but struggled in the Finals against New York’s aggressive style.
The next steps for both players will come in the coming weeks. Harden will decide by July 1 whether to accept his player option or become a free agent. Mitchell will have more clarity once July 7 arrives.
Cleveland’s decision-makers will need to evaluate how to best support both stars in a rebuild that’s already showing promise. The 2024-25 season could be a pivotal year for the franchise.
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