Earlier than a looming choice on his 2026-27 participant possibility, Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden has a extra fast concern.
Per reports, the 17-year NBA veteran was arrested and charged with misdemeanor illegal carrying of a weapon early Saturday morning in Houston.
“Harden was launched on bond, and he has a court docket date scheduled for June 22,” TMZ wrote. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst added that Harden has a “$42 million participant possibility choice he should make by June 29, however solely $13.3 million is assured.
“It has been anticipated Harden would decide out of the contract and signal a brand new multiyear deal to stay in Cleveland, the place he was traded in February,” Windhorst continued.
James Harden’s arrest comes after a disastrous ECF, earlier than potential free company
It is unclear what sort of impression Harden’s arrest can have on the upcoming choice, though it definitely does not assist in doable negotiations. His inventory beforehand took a success through the Japanese Convention Finals sweep by the hands of the New York Knicks.
The 2017-18 league MVP averaged 16 factors per sport on 38.9 % taking pictures, together with 17.8 % on 28 three-pointers, whereas additionally ending the four-game set with extra turnovers (17) than assists (12).
It was one more playoff disappointment for Harden, who’s had his share through the years, together with each Recreation 7s the Cavaliers performed within the first two rounds of the 2026 playoffs. For his profession, Harden has shot 34.1 %, together with 20.3 % from lengthy distance, in 9 winner-take-all video games, averaging 18 factors per sport. (h/t Stathead)
Turning 37 in August, age can be working towards Harden, who’s a transparent second possibility to protect Donovan Mitchell in Cleveland. As a substitute of coming into a doable free company with optimistic momentum, the previous two months have put Harden at an obstacle and with minimal negotiating energy.
