NBA Trade Rumors: Latest Donovan Mitchell Admission Could All But Confirm Darius Garland Departure

The moment the Cavs ended their disappointing postseason chapter, another troubling chapter opened up. It’s nothing but a this-or-that situation for the Cleveland Cavaliers front office. Donovan Mitchell, who is currently in his player option, is expected to sign a maximum contract extension in the near future. In that case, Darius Garland, who has the biggest contract ever in Cavs history, has to make his way out. Amid this tough situation, Spida Mitchell’s recent statement hasn’t seemed to have done any good for Garland.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, in tonight’s pre-game show, said, “He (Donovan Mitchell) is not disgruntled with anyone or anything in Cleveland.” He further quoted the star, “I am in happy in Cleveland… ever since I arrived in Cleveland.” So, these words only further solidified Mitchell’s chances of sealing that Max extension.

Speaking of his upcoming player option, Woj once again quoted Mitchell, “I know I’ve got decisions to make this offseason. My agent and I will talk to Cleveland about that at the right time.” The veteran reporter further emphasized Mitchell’s other statement “I am not leaving the season unhappy, I’m leaving it more determined” and stressed that he could sign the max extension in the off-season.

The Cavs put up a commanding performance in the regular season, staying afloat in the top-4 seeds of the Eastern Conference. It not only fetched them the chance to play in the postseason but also to prove to the Cavs Nation that they’ve assembled the best team since LeBron James & Co.

However, it doesn’t seem like it will stay intact for longer as they stop at a crossroads. The Athletic‘s Shams Charania reported the executives believe that the front office has to choose between either of the two players in the offseason. Looking at Donovan Mitchell‘s playoff run, it could be curtains for Darius Garland.

Who will stay with the Cavs- Donovan Mitchell or Darius Garland?

There isn’t any official confirmation yet for this million-dollar question.

But, looking at Woj’s recent report, it looks like Spida Mitchell will take home the prize. Ever since the trade rumor took over the NBA world, many analogies have dropped. One analogy suggested the team opt for Darius Garland and build the team around him and Evan Mobley.

Since Mitchell is only 24 years old, he can fit in any other franchise and build a Championship side. However, there are so many chances that this route could go downhill for the Cavs. Considering Garland’s underwhelming run in the postseason, this could turn into a gamble. In the 12 games, Garland has recorded an average of 15.7 points, which also included a poor 4-17 FG in Game 5 without Mitchell.

On the other hand, Mitchell had put out a show in the postseason, averaging 29.6 points with a high score of 50 points. Trading Mitchell out is like clicking on the reset button for the Cavs as they rebuild the side. Meanwhile, trading out Garland will allow the team to strengthen their roster.

Mobley just finished the first year of his 5-year contract worth $197 million. Importantly, he will have a tough time finding a new team to fit him in. Where do you think Garland will end up? Let us know in the comments.