“He’s Not Long in Cleveland”: Veteran Analyst Reveals Donovan Mitchell’s Hidden Intentions, Hinting at Second Chance for Knicks

The New York Knicks lost an All-NBA level guard in Donovan Mitchell last time they were engaged in trade talks. At the time, Mitchell was with the Utah Jazz. Though he never put forward his interest in being traded, the Knicks were pointed out as his preferred destination. Unfortunately, New York missed that window.

Fast forward to now and the Knicks find themselves in a similar situation. Only this time, there are additional incentives. Will the New York Knicks hop on this train and give themselves additional leverage as well as grant Mitchell’s wish?

The Knicks are granted a second opportunity to land Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell has his player option coming up in 2025. The Knicks have a great chance to sign the 4-time NBA All-Star since he won’t be extending his contract with the Cavaliers in the 2023-24 season. In the ‘Bill Simmons Podcast’, veteran analyst Howard Beck points out that, “Donovan Mitchell still wants to play in NY.”

As mentioned above, the Knicks had already lost a valuable chance during the Utah Jazz trade period. With Josh Hart entering free agency next summer and RJ Barett starting his $107 million contract next season, the Knicks can afford the elite guard.

Beck also mentions that this will be an important year for the Cavs and, with Mitchell’s confirmation, Bill Simmons is convinced that “he’s not long for Cleveland.” Though he won’t sign an extension with the Cavs, Mitchell’s primary focus now is on the 2023-24 campaign and hopefully bring a title to the team.

Mitchell’s role with the Cavaliers gave them a much-needed push

Donovan’s time in the Cavaliers was one of the best in his career. He averaged 28.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.4 assists in 68 games. His arrival also proved to break the spell the team was under. Cleveland finished fourth in the Eastern Conference finals and made it to the playoffs for the first time since the 2017-18 season.

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Suffice it to say that Cleveland swooping in to get Mitchell when they did was one of their better decisions. Looking back, they wouldn’t have any regrets. But if the Knicks finally decide to welcome Donovan to the team, Hart and Barrett will find their roles lessen considerably.

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The added interest for Donovan would probably be Jalen Brunson. Mitchell and Brunson have been friends for a long while. Now, it’s all down to the management to make a decision. Of course, they will first have to go through Cleveland.