James Harden Signs $81.5 Million Deal to Stay With Clippers: Full Contract Details

By Edcel Panganiban July 01, 2025 04:14

James Harden has committed his future to the Los Angeles Clippers by signing a new two-year contract worth $81.5 million, a deal that underscores both his value to the franchise and the team's ambitions moving forward. Harden declined his $36.3 million player option for the 2025-26 season to finalize this agreement, which includes a partially guaranteed player option for the 2026-27 season, allowing flexibility for both the star guard and the Clippers organization.

This new contract represents a significant raise for Harden, who averaged an impressive 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game during the 2024-25 season. His performance earned him a selection to his 11th NBA All-Star team and an All-NBA Third Team nod, his first such honor since the 2019-20 season. At 35 years old, Harden has demonstrated remarkable consistency and leadership, becoming just the second player aged 35 or older to average over 22 points and 8 assists per game, joining LeBron James in that elite category.

The decision to stay in Los Angeles aligns Harden with Kawhi Leonard, who is under contract through 2027, creating a core that the Clippers hope will contend deep into the postseason. Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank emphasized the importance of retaining Harden, stating, “We’re super hopeful James is here for a long time. But the same time, we respect that a player can opt, and obviously we’re super excited that he can opt and we can make a deal that makes sense for both sides”.

Harden’s impact on the Clippers has been palpable since his arrival in 2023. After a rocky period in Philadelphia and Brooklyn, he found a role that suits his game and leadership style in Los Angeles. Last season, Harden stepped up especially when Kawhi Leonard was sidelined with a knee injury, guiding the Clippers to a 50-32 record and a playoff berth. Although the team fell in a hard-fought seven-game series against the Denver Nuggets, Harden’s clutch performances, including a memorable floater to tie Game 1, reinforced his status as a premier offensive weapon.

Financially, the deal provides Harden with an average annual salary of approximately $40.75 million, a notable increase from his previous $35 million salary. The structure of the contract, with a player option in the second year, offers Harden control over his future while giving the Clippers salary cap flexibility, including a $14.1 million mid-level exception to pursue additional talent.

Harden’s choice to decline his player option and re-sign signals his belief in the Clippers’ championship potential. “I’m here for some more, and then retire, so I keep moving the needle off the court,” Harden said in 2024, reflecting his commitment not only as a player but also as a leader within the organization and his hometown franchise.

In summary, James Harden’s new $81.5 million deal with the Clippers is a strategic win for both parties. It secures a dynamic, proven star for the team’s immediate future while providing Harden with a lucrative contract and the flexibility to shape the final chapters of his illustrious career. As the Clippers look to build around Harden and Leonard, this extension is a clear statement of intent to remain competitive in the Western Conference and chase NBA glory.