The Cavaliers are reportedly working to create enough financial flexibility to make a competitive offer to LeBron James after he informed the Lakers that he plans to leave in free agency.
A key part of Cleveland’s strategy could involve James Harden, who declined his $42.3 million player option and is expected to re-sign with the Cavaliers.
However, Harden is reportedly delaying a new agreement to help preserve the team’s salary cap flexibility.
As currently constructed, Cleveland can offer James only the veteran minimum.
If Harden agrees to a new contract starting around $30 million, the Cavaliers could move closer to creating room for the $15 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception.
To make that possible, Cleveland is reportedly attempting to trade Max Strus, who is owed $16.6 million next season.
Moving his contract without taking back salary would give the Cavaliers a realistic path to offering James the full midlevel exception.
The Warriors are pursuing a similar strategy after Draymond Green declined his player option, with Golden State also exploring ways to create enough cap flexibility to pursue James.
James Harden Delaying Signing, Cavaliers Pursuing Max Strus Trade To Open LeBron James MLE Path https://t.co/hmUfS7sSMS
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 30, 2026
