Hezonja Has Agreement with Cleveland, but Real Madrid Won't Release Him Yet

Mario Hezonja's signing with the Cleveland Cavaliers is not yet officially closed. Although the Croatian small forward has an agreement with the Ohio franchise for one season and $2.8 million, his departure from Real Madrid has been complicated by an issue with the NBA clause.

According to Marc Stein, the agreement between Hezonja and Cleveland came on July 26, just days after LeBron James chose the Philadelphia 76ers. The problem is that the player's NBA exit clause would have expired on July 20, six days before receiving a concrete offer on the table.

That's where the friction lies. Real Madrid would not be willing to release the player without further negotiation, understanding that the contractual deadline had already passed. The situation aligns with what MARCA previously reported, noting that Hezonja had communicated his intention to activate the clause within the deadline, but without presenting an NBA offer or making the corresponding payment at that time.

Cleveland, despite everything, continues working to complete the operation. From those involved in the process, it's maintained that the Cavaliers are trying to resolve the pending requirements to make the Croatian's incorporation official.

The 31-year-old Hezonja has been prioritizing his return to the NBA after six consecutive seasons in Europe. During that stretch he played for Panathinaikos, UNICS Kazan, and Real Madrid, where he rebuilt his career and re-established himself as one of the most impactful wings on the continent.

His previous NBA experience includes 330 games with the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. Now he's seeking a new opportunity in Cleveland, but first the contractual standoff with Real Madrid must be resolved.

The case is no longer just about the market. It's about deadlines, clauses, and money. Hezonja wants to return to the NBA, the Cavaliers are waiting for him, but Real Madrid is maintaining a firm position.