Harden’s Extension Under Fire | Cleveland Cavaliers News

Cleveland just handed James Harden a massive three-year, $97 million deal — but critics are already calling it a gamble. At 37, Harden’s playoff track record is shaky, and his recent Eastern Conference Finals performance — averaging just 16 points while turning the ball over — doesn’t inspire confidence. Former NBA center Olden Polynice labels it “dead money,” arguing Harden’s decline is real and his speed can’t match his prime. Even Robert Horry compares him to Allen Iverson, warning that Father Time catches up to even elite scorers. While the Cavs hope he’ll be a facilitator alongside Donovan Mitchell, skeptics question whether this contract reflects his long-term value — especially with his age and history of playoff struggles. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/762e91afbe6e9092