In a groundbreaking move, the Cleveland Cavaliers have secured Donovan Mitchell for the long haul, signing him to a lucrative 3-year, $150 million extension that will see him don the wine and gold until at least 2027. The move solidifies Mitchell as a cornerstone of the franchise and sets the stage for a bright future in Cleveland.
However, amidst the celebration of Mitchell’s extension, there looms uncertainty surrounding guard Darius Garland. The young playmaker has found himself in trade talks this offseason, with his representation at Klutch Sports hinting at a potential move if Mitchell were to extend with the Cavs. Despite initial rumors, talks of a trade for Garland have dried up, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for the talented guard.
Garland’s journey in the 2023-24 season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. After a promising 2022-23 campaign alongside Mitchell, Garland’s season took a hit when he suffered a broken jaw in December. Despite averaging 20.8 points per game at the time of his injury, Garland struggled upon his return, posting just 16.6 points per game. Trade rumors began to swirl, with speculation linking Garland to destinations like San Antonio. However, recent signings have quelled those rumors, leaving Garland’s future in Cleveland uncertain.
As trade talks quiet down, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has noted the difficulty in finding value for Garland in the current market. The Cavaliers are unlikely to part ways with the talented guard, as they believe in his potential to bounce back and return to All-Star form. With his contract running until 2028, Garland looks set to remain a Cavalier for the foreseeable future.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Garland’s partnership with Mitchell remains a focal point for the Cavaliers. The duo has shown flashes of brilliance in their limited time together on the court, averaging 19.5 points per game in 95 games played. With coach Kenny Atkinson at the helm, there is hope that Garland can flourish and reach new heights in the upcoming season.
While trade rumors may continue to swirl, all signs point to Garland remaining a Cavalier next season. The team’s faith in his abilities and potential for growth make him a key piece of the puzzle for Cleveland’s success in the years to come. As the dust settles on the offseason, all eyes will be on Garland as he looks to carve out his place in the Cavaliers’ bright future.
