Amid Knicks Trade Rumors, Donovan Mitchell Speaks About His Future With the Cavaliers: “No Disrespect…”

“Who doesn’t want to be home next to mom?” This is what Donovan Mitchell had to say a year ago when the Utah Jazz shocked the NBA world by trading the four-time All-Star to the Cleveland Cavaliers. But now, a year later, when rumors about the trade he and everyone else in the league expected in 2022 are making the rounds, Mitchell doesn’t have much to say. At least not when it comes to playing for the New York Knicks.

The 2023-24 season has been an upset. Big things were expected of this resurgent Cleveland Cavaliers team after a promising 2022-23 season. Contrary to early predictions of a top-tier finish in the Eastern Conference, they presently occupy a mid-table position in the standings. Their championship hopes are now non-existent. And that’s precisely what brought Donovan Mitchell’s future back onto the table.

Donovan Mitchell addresses trade rumors

Amid the Cavs’ recent form, coupled with injuries for Evan Mobley and Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell has been focused on keeping spirits high on his team. Talking to the media after Cleveland’s 127-119 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, he was asked about the Knicks trade rumors. Mitchell set the record and his priorities straight: “My job is to focus on [getting wins]. We have two guys that are out, so I’m not answering anything.”

Forward/center Evan Mobley will be out for six to eight weeks following surgery on his left knee. Point guard Darius Garland will also sit out the next several weeks after sustaining a fractured jaw against the Cavs’ loss to the Boston Celtics. Considering all this, Mitchell added, “No disrespect, I appreciate that you have to ask the question, but I’m not going there with any of those questions. My focus is on these guys being out, us trying to find a way to get wins.” His denial to talk about his future with the Cavs has led to further trade speculation.

Mitchell’s trade rumors don’t bode well for the young Cavs team. They showed immense promise last season, becoming the first Cavs squad to reach the playoffs since LeBron James’ departure. But this season, they have disappointed their fanbase. They currently occupy the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference standings, with 14 wins and 12 defeats. But Mitchell and his team aren’t giving up.

Despite everything, Mitchell has continued to perform at an All-Star level. He has averaged 27.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. Injuries to key players and poor offensive showings have led to their mediocre results. However, there is still hope within the Cavs’ fanbase of a better showing in the future.

Can the Cavaliers clinch a playoff spot?

Despite injuries, trade rumors, and poor form, the Cavs still firmly remain in the hunt for a guaranteed playoff spot. They have one of the best defenses in the league. The Cavs boast a defensive rating of 112.8, ranking the 10th-best in the NBA. However, it is their offense that has been the problem area.

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The Cavaliers hold the 22nd position in the NBA for offensive rating, registering a rating of 112.7. They have looked devoid of any offensive inspiration despite having the likes of Mitchell and Garland on their roster. The Cavs have shown that they have the potential to make it to the postseason. But they need to find their offensive spark in order to make it far in the postseason.

What do you think are the chances for the Cavs this season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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