Mario Hezonja Returns to the NBA

It’s not every day you see a former NBA lottery pick come back after six years abroad. But that’s exactly what Mario Hezonja is doing.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed the 31-year-old Croatian player to a one-year contract worth $2.8 million, marking his return to the NBA for the first time since 2020.

Hezonja was drafted fifth overall by the Orlando Magic back in 2015, entering the league with considerable expectations. Unfortunately, his performance didn’t quite match the hype.

Across five seasons with Orlando, New York, and Portland, he averaged 6.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists over 330 games before heading to Europe.

After facing adversity in the league, Hezonja decided to take his career to Europe, where he truly began to flourish.

During his time with Real Madrid, he became one of the top wingers on the continent. He secured a Euroleague title and was crowned Liga Endesa MVP last season, solidifying his status among Europe’s best talents.

Now, Hezonja is getting another shot in the NBA.

This is, frankly, a smart, low-risk move for the Cavaliers. They’re bringing in a 6-foot-8 player who has battled at the highest level overseas. If he finds it challenging to fit back in, the financial commitment is minimal. However, if he thrives, Cleveland could have snagged an unexpected gem this offseason.

Sure, the Cavaliers missed out on LeBron James, but maybe they’ve found something else promising in Hezonja.