A single trade for Rude Gobert sent the Utah Jazz into a rebuilding phase. All their stars seemed up for grabs. However, arguably the biggest draw was their cornerstone, Donovan Mitchell. After months of teams battling for the three-time All-Star, the Cleveland Cavaliers opened up the doors. But another big market franchise was preparing to welcome Spida. It was none other than the New York Knicks.
Notably, before the Cavs, the New York Knicks had their eyes set on Mitchell. Negotiations were also underway and it looked like the crafty scorer would be part of Knick’s history. However, Jazz’s demands were astronomical. Apart from RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, Utah wanted all of the picks.
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The gamble seemed be too much and the Knicks withdrew their offer. Recently, New York Knicks executive World Wide Wes called out Utah for their outlandish demands.
Knicks still recovering from losing Mitchell?
After Utah’s prolific duo fell apart, the opportunity was wide open for the Knicks. Already obtaining Jalen Brunson, the hopes of making a postseason run were alive. And with Mitchell’s case, New York was set to be a powerhouse. However, giving up a majority of their future seemed too much. The Knicks offered a final settlement including Barrett and Quickley. However, Utah was after their unprotected picks. That turned out to be the final straw as New York withdrew their deal.
Knicks Executive, William Wesley had a few words for Utah’s price tag. He said: ?[The Jazz] wanted my wife, they wanted my kids, they wanted my grandkids [for Donovan Mitchell].?
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Knicks executive, World Wide Wes:
?[The Jazz] wanted my wife, they wanted my kids, they wanted my grandkids [for Donovan Mitchell].?
(via @SiriusXMNBA) pic.twitter.com/u74oEuamnJ
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 9, 2022
After New York stepped back, Cleveland saw their chance. Giving up Colin Sexton, Lauri Markannen, and Ochai Agbaji along with some picks and swaps was enough to get the job done. However, the 2016 NBA champions didn’t have to get rid of their core. With an average age of just 25, Cleveland’s youth is their true power. Now, with Spida Mitchell ready to kick things off, the Cavaliers are looking pretty scary in the upcoming season. It wouldn’t be surprising if they make one or two deep playoff run in the next few season.
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With such a superstar talent acquired, do you think Donovan Mitchell will lead Cleveland back to championship glory like LeBron James? Let us know your views in the comments below.