Mario Hezonja Returns to NBA with Cleveland Cavaliers on Modest Contract

The NBA officially approved Croatian forward Mario Hezonja's contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday, marking his return to the league after six years. Hezonja, 31, exercised his opt-out clause from Real Madrid and is expected to play a significant role in Cleveland's rotation. However, his contract represents a financial step down compared to what he could have earned as a free agent in Europe, including interest from Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv.

For the 2026/27 season, Hezonja will earn $3,066,143, with the NBA contributing $2,449,421 under league rules. After taxes and deductions, his take-home pay is estimated between $1.7 million and $1.8 million, further reduced by a 4% agent fee and living expenses in Cleveland. This salary is considered minimal relative to his status but reflects an investment in returning to the NBA.

Hezonja has previously played 330 NBA games with Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers, averaging 6.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 18.5 minutes per game. His contract is fully guaranteed through summer 2027, and NBA rules prohibit trading him before December 15, 2026. The Cavaliers officially announced his signing on social media, welcoming him back to the team.