Exclusive NBA Intel On Cavs’ Plans To Build Around Donovan Mitchell

The Cleveland Cavaliers enter a busy offseason as one of the organizations many around the NBA are monitoring. While the external conversation has focused on Donovan Mitchell‘s next potential team, there is much to consider. How the Cavs approach the summer could influence the league’s landscape.

Mitchell has a player option for $37 million for the 2025-26 season but can sign a contract extension this summer. After averaging 26.6 points, 6.1 assists and 5.1 rebounds in 55 games, he’s positioned well from leverage standpoint. Given the way the NBA transaction cycle works, many are monitoring what he’ll do since it could position the Cavaliers to act proactively.

Multiple sources have told the NBA Analysis Network both before and after their postseason appearance that Mitchell is likelier to remain in Cleveland than not. If he does, the team is expected to evaluate trade overtures to reconfigure the roster, even if it includes parting ways with Darius Garland to do so.

Among the potential trade targets that could be of interest is Brandon Ingram of the New Orleans Pelicans, to provide another reliable scoring threat on the wing next to Mitchell, per various league sources. The Cavaliers struggled with receiving reliable wing scoring this season.

While it’s speculation, some league personnel who spoke with NBA Analysis Network believe James used his courtside viewing experience in Cleveland to look closer at Klutch Sports Group client Garland as a potential trade target for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, it remains to be seen what viable trade offering they have that helps the Cavaliers build around Mitchell.

Sources have informed NBA Analysis Network that the San Antonio Spurs are among various organizations that have conducted due diligence on Garland as a potential trade candidate. The Spurs seek a talented playmaking guard to pair with Victor Wembanyama. Some within San Antonio’s organization are believed to have more interest in Garland than Trae Young.

A few fundamental concerns the Cavaliers may need to address this summer include replacing head coach J.B. Bickerstaff and breaking up their two-center configuration with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. While Mitchell, when healthy, has produced explosive results in Cleveland, there is a belief the team could be further maximized by having more shooting on the floor instead of playing double bigs.

One factor to consider regarding Mobley’s future is the high expectations his representation holds for a contract extension, which some believe could result in him becoming a trade canddate. While clearly an impactful defender, his lack of development raises real questions about the long-term potential as a member of their core.

As the Cavaliers navigate all of these questiont about their future, they will certainly be one of the top teams to monitor for activity.