Mario Hezonja Returns to NBA with Cavaliers on $2.8 Million Deal

Mario Hezonja is making his return to the NBA after a six-year hiatus, having signed a one-year contract worth $2.8 million with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This move comes as Hezonja, the fifth overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, last played in the league during the 2019-20 season with the Portland Trail Blazers.

At 31 years old, Hezonja will join a Cavaliers team that recently reached the Eastern Conference finals. The Croatian forward had also attracted interest from the Golden State Warriors during the offseason, highlighting his value in the current market.

Hezonja's NBA journey began with the Orlando Magic, where he struggled to meet expectations over three seasons. His best performance came in the 2017-18 season, averaging 9.6 points per game. After a brief stint with the New York Knicks, where he showcased his potential with notable plays, he faced challenges that led to his departure from the league.

Following his time in the NBA, Hezonja played overseas, competing in various leagues including Greece and Russia, and most recently with Real Madrid. His performance in Europe has been impressive, averaging 17.5 points and 4.9 rebounds last season, along with a solid 36.6% shooting from beyond the arc.

As Hezonja prepares for his comeback, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can finally realize the potential that made him a top draft pick nearly a decade ago.