James Harden will still start in the backcourt for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
What happened?
The Cavaliers drafted Meleek Thomas with the 34th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Why it matters for James Harden
Harden is expected to receive a restructured deal with the Cavaliers this offseason.
The Cavaliers traded down from the 29th to the 34th pick to save money.
Meleek Thomas is a talented shooter and defender who can bring depth to the team.
What comes next?
Thomas will join a talented backcourt with James Harden and Donovan Mitchell.
Harden and Mitchell will still start, with Thomas providing a youthful spark off the bench.
Thomas's defensive skills could be an asset for the Cavaliers.
The Cavaliers' decision to draft Thomas gives them added depth and a potential future star.
Harden's restructured deal is expected to keep him with the Cavaliers for the foreseeable future.
The 2026 NBA Draft saw the Cavaliers make a savvy pick with Meleek Thomas.