He would have earned more at Hapoel Tel Aviv: Hezonja returns to the NBA, contract details revealed

The NBA league officially approved today (Friday) Mario Hezonja's contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and now the Croatian forward is ready to return to the best league in the world after six years. Following this, the club also announced his signing.

31-year-old Hezonja, who exercised the exit option from his contract with Real Madrid, is expected to play a significant role in the Cavaliers' rotation, but from a financial perspective, this decision looks more like an investment in the future. His salary will be significantly lower than what he could have earned as a free agent in Europe, with Hapoel Tel Aviv being among the teams that hoped to sign him.

In the 2026/27 season, Hezonja will earn $3,066,143, with the NBA funding $2,449,421 of that amount in accordance with league regulations. After taxes and various deductions, he will be left with about $1.7 to $1.8 million. From this amount, the agent's fee (4%), living expenses in Cleveland, and other costs will also be deducted.

"Welcome to Cleveland, Mario!"

In practice, Hezonja will earn a minimum salary this season relative to his status, in order to return and be part of the NBA. In the past, he recorded 330 games in the league for the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers, with averages of 6.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 18.5 minutes per game.

According to available information, his contract is fully guaranteed until the summer of 2027. Additionally, according to NBA rules, he cannot be traded before December 15.