Cavaliers Could Waive Cam Whitmore After James Harden Deal

The Cavaliers have discussed waiving and stretching Cam Whitmore's $5.4 million salary after acquiring him from the Washington Wizards. Cleveland may not keep Whitmore long after acquiring him, with discussions about waiving and stretching his contract over three seasons, leaving a $1.8 million charge annually. ESPN's Bobby Marks expects Cleveland to waive and stretch Whitmore's contract. The team became hard-capped after acquiring Peyton Watson in a sign-and-trade, with the first apron at $209.02 million for 2026-27 and the second apron at $221.69 million. James Harden’s new contract is worth $97 million over three years, including a player option for 2028-29 and a trade kicker. Harden declined a $42.3 million option before agreeing to the new deal. Cleveland acquired him from the Los Angeles Clippers on February 4 for Darius Garland and a second-round pick. Whitmore averaged 9.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.7 assists for Washington last season, shooting 45.6% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range. His 2023-24 season with Houston averaged 12.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in 18.7 minutes per game. Peyton Watson, acquired in a five-team trade, averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists last season. The Milwaukee Bucks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Clippers also submitted offers for Watson before his deal with Cleveland. Cleveland’s roster changes post-2023-24 season include Dean Wade leaving, Keon Ellis signing with Brooklyn, and Larry Nance Jr. joining Indiana. They also signed Mario Hezonja and re-signed Thomas Bryant. Whitmore’s status remains uncertain before training camp in September.