Cleveland Cavaliers: Ex-NBA Champ Proposes Darius Garland-Donovan Mitchell Breakup Amid Struggles

For his part, Darius Garland has been a bright spot for the team since the King left. Drafted in 2019, the young guard initially had a disappointing rookie season in the league. After that horrendous start, he would go on to improve himself becoming a potent scorer and a credible playmaker for Cleveland.

His best run yet occurred the year Mitchell joined the team when he was named to an All-Star Game. Garland also posted averages of 21.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 8.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game during the 2021-22 season.

Kendrick Perkins Cleveland Cavaliers Break Up Darius Garland-Donovan Mitchell Tandem

Now in their second year together, the Mitchell-Garland tandem has certainly lifted the Cavs to its best run yet since the LeBron James era of the team. But according to Perkins, breaking the two All-Star guards up makes perfect sense for Cleveland’s front office.

“The @cavs need to make a choice! Because Donovan Mitchell is in Darius Garland way. I’m just saying…” Perkins tweeted.

Having two offense-oriented guards in the backcourt will definitely affect the Cavaliers defense in the long run. Fortunately, the team boasts a lineup of wings and big men that can cover the defensive deficiencies of these two, which can be seen in the Cavs’ seventh-place defense this season.

Unfortunately, injuries have also occurred to both Mitchell and Garland since the All-Star break. During that period, the Cavs have only won nine of their last 25 games. Even if that’s the case, Cleveland is still third in the East with a definite appearance in the postseason down the line.

The upcoming playoffs will be the ultimate crucible for the Mitchell-Garland duo. If they fail and the Cavaliers fail to contend in the coming weeks, the front office may have to reconsider Perkins’ suggestion.