Here's what the Cavs can offer LeBron James in a contract, and how a trade might matter

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LeBron James might come home to play for the Cleveland Cavaliers once again.

But if that's the plan for the free agent superstar, a few moves might have to happen first.

LeBron's contract with the Cavs will also depend on James Harden, who at the moment hasn't signed a new deal either.

And there could also be a trade that impacts how this plays out.

MORE: This NBA rookie is jumping on his foul shots

How much can the Cavs pay LeBron?​

ESPN's Bobby Marks explains the contract situation in a new article on Thursday, including how Harden's deal will matter:

"The next contract of James Harden, who declined his $42.3 million player option for 2026-27, could play a role in whether the Cavaliers have the $3.9 million veterans minimum exception or the $6.1 million tax midlevel. Not including Harden, Cleveland is $25.3 million below the first apron and $38 million under the second. If a team uses more than $6.1 million of the signing exception, it is then hard-capped at the first apron."

Other teams can offer James more money, but he has already made clear he's not seeking just the biggest payday.

How a Cavs trade could help​

Two players on the Cavs could be traded to clear more salary cap space.

"For Cleveland to open up more than $6.1 million, it would need to trade either Max Strus or Dennis Schroder," Marks wrote.

Strus is likely more valuable at this point, but his shooting could also work nicely alongside King James.

But as ESPN's Brian Windhorst said the other day -- if news emerges of a Strus trade, it's a huge sign that LeBron is coming to town.

More NBA news:​

• Why the Hornets traded LaMelo Ball to the Timberwolves
• How Heat can unite Giannis with his brothers
• Cavaliers would form GOAT ending for LeBron James
• Giannis legacy with the Bucks remains intact
• Bronny James' best future doesn't involve a trade from Lakers

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