Croatian forward Mario Hezonja, 31, has signed for one season with the Cleveland Cavaliers for $2.8 million, according to Shams Charania. His departure is a relief for Barça, who will avoid facing him this season.
Real Madrid basketball loses one of its stars. Mario Hezonja, 31-year-old Croatian forward, has signed a one-season contract with the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers, as reported by journalist Shams Charania. The deal, amounting to $2.8 million gross, marks the player's second adventure in the American league.
Hezonja's decision to leave the white team was hastened by the change on the bench. The Croatian was fully confident in the project led by Sergio Scariolo, but the arrival of Pedro Martínez as the new Madrid coach altered his plans. The lack of rapport with the new coach was key for the Dubrovnik native to opt for a return to the NBA.
The player had renewed his contract with Real Madrid in 2024, after having a preliminary agreement with Barça. However, some public statements made him reconsider and seal his continuity with the white club. This new contract included a clause that allowed him to leave for the NBA if he wished.
According to Diario As, Hezonja had until the 20th of last month to execute that clause, which amounted to €850,000. The money was not disbursed within the established timeframe, creating a complex situation between Real Madrid and the player. Now, both parties will need to resolve the rights of the Croatian forward so he can join the Cavaliers.
Hezonja's departure is a relief for Barça, which is undergoing a deep renewal of its squad. With up to nine signings made, the azulgrana team will avoid facing a player who has always been a headache. The Croatian's exit weakens Real Madrid ahead of the upcoming EuroLeague, where the white team aimed to compete for the title.
LeBron James's role has been crucial in this operation. The Lakers star, who shares an agency with Hezonja, is believed to have influenced the Cavaliers' interest in the Croatian. James, who has always shown admiration for European talent, has been a determining factor in Cleveland's decision to pursue the forward.
Hezonja previously played in the NBA from 2015 to 2019, representing the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. During that time, his numbers were modest: 9.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists on average. Now, at 31 and with more experience, he seeks to establish himself in the best league in the world.
For Real Madrid, losing Hezonja is a significant setback. The Croatian was a key piece in Scariolo's scheme, and his departure will force the club to look for a replacement in the market. The white management is already working on potential signings to fill the gap left by the forward.
Barça, for its part, continues with its renewal plan. Xevi Pujol, from the shadows, is betting on players who have not succeeded in the NBA. Hezonja's departure prevents a significant reinforcement for the eternal rival and allows the azulgranas to focus on their own signings.
The next NBA season will begin in October, giving Hezonja time to adapt to his new team. The Cavaliers, who failed to qualify for the playoffs last season, hope that the Croatian's experience will add depth to their roster.
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