James Harden Sends Warning About New Cavaliers Offseason Addition

The Cleveland Cavaliers made a statement over the offseason, with the front office making all sorts of moves to improve the roster.

The big addition was bringing in defensive forward Peyton Watson on a four-year, $88 million contract. But it's some of the smaller moves that could end up changing everything for the Cavaliers this coming season.

The one that stands out was Cleveland coming to terms with forward Mario Hezonja, who has spent the last few seasons playing overseas. Hezonja last played in the NBA during the 2019-20 season, but his NBA comeback is here.

The veteran forward saw real success playing internationally, with him winning the Spanish Liga MVP last season, leading his team to a top record. Playing in 44 games for Real Madrid, Hezonja averaged 17.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, showing what he can do.

This is a big reason why the Cavaliers wanted to bring him back to the NBA, and this team is excited to see how he fits with the group. Hezonja offers the Cavaliers another scoring wing, and his game seems to have grown while playing overseas.

Heading into the new season, star James Harden was very complimentary about the new offensive weapon that the Cavaliers now have. Harden believes that Hezonja gives this team something that it didn't have last season, which should give them more of an edge in games.

The star guard complimented Hezonja's shooting, passing, and finishing ability on the floor, something that the forward did well overseas. For Cleveland, Hezonja could get strong shot opportunities playing alongside Harden and star Donovan Mitchell.

Hezonja's best season in the NBA came during the 2018-19 year with the Orlando Magic, where he averaged 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. If he can put up similar numbers, the Cavaliers could have landed a steal over the offseason, adding to the bench unit.

Cleveland's bench needed an upgrade this offseason, and the front office made it a point to bring in guys that they believed complemented the starters. Hezonja will be trying to carve out a role for himself with the Cavaliers, but this team has full belief in his services.

There won't be much pressure on Hezonja to do too much since the Cavaliers have plenty of other stars and scoring on the roster. This will allow him to simply play his game, offering him a chance for NBA redemption.