Cavaliers Could Consider Donovan Mitchell Deal In Offseason

This postseason is shaping up to be a “make-or-break” for the Cavaliers based on their future trajectory.

Guard Donovan Mitchell could depart Cleveland if the Cavaliers fall short in the playoffs. The Eastern Conference is wide-open because Jayson Tatum is a month into his return and the Knicks have their inconsistencies. Detroit is the top seed at 60-22 and poses the biggest threat out of the East. The Cavaliers have a good chance to appear in the finals, an expectation that’s a factor in Michell’s decision to stay.

Fred Katz of The Athletic remarked that Cleveland will “discuss the possibility of trading Mitchell” over the summer if he opts not to sign an extension. The guard expressed his desire to remain in Cleveland on numerous occasions; this caused some to remain skeptical about this rumor because an early playoff exit may not be enough for a star player to pass up on a huge pay day.

Another factor that could affect Mitchell’s decision is whether or not the front office can afford to keep the current team intact for next season. James Harden is projected to decline his player option, while Evan Mobley, Max Strus and Dennis Schroder have high-paying contracts. Cleveland would surpass the second salary apron if all these players resign.

Time would tell if this rumor comes into fruition based on Cleveland’s postseason result, but things could turn in a heartbeat.