The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed Croatian forward Mario Hezonja to a one-year, $2.8 million contract, according to ESPN.
The deal marks his return to the NBA after six years playing overseas.
>>> Murakami Homers Twice, Drives Six RBIs in White Sox Win Over Astros
Hezonja, 31, last appeared in the NBA during the 2019-20 season with the Portland Trail Blazers.
He then joined Real Madrid, spending four seasons competing in the EuroLeague and Spain's Liga Endesa.
During his European stint, Hezonja averaged 13.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game while shooting 45.7% from the field and 36% from three-point range on nearly five attempts per game, per Excel Sports Management.
He earned MVP honors in the Liga Endesa last season and was named MVP of the 2027 FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers.
NBA Career and Role with Cavaliers
Hezonja was selected fifth overall by the Orlando Magic in the 2015 NBA Draft.
>>> Mets Rally with Two Three-Run Homers to Defeat Dodgers 8-3
He played five NBA seasons with the Magic, New York Knicks, and Trail Blazers, posting career averages of 6.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game.
The Cavaliers view Hezonja as a high-upside offensive talent with strong outside shooting and size, which could complement their frontcourt and backcourt balance, according to Fear the Sword.
"He is a movement shooter with size who can be a real asset when those looks are falling," Fear the Sword reported.
"Hezonja has the size and strength to get inside and finish in the paint, especially if you cheat over to prevent the outside shot."
While Hezonja is not known for his defense, his offensive impact ranked in the 89th percentile in the EuroLeague last season.
>>> Cooper Lutkenhaus, 17, Wins Men's 800m at 2026 USATF Championships
The signing is the Cavaliers' first free agency addition this summer. Further roster moves are anticipated, including potential re-signings and trades.
