The Cleveland Cavaliers are enjoying their best era since All-Star forward LeBron James left the franchise for the second time in 2018. But for NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins, the front office has to trade either Donovan Mitchell or Darius Garland to improve the team’s performance in the coming season.
After playing five seasons for the Utah Jazz, Mitchell was traded to the Cavs and has already spent two years playing for the Wine and Gold. During that period, the All-Star shooting guard has posted averages of 27.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. His addition to the roster has also led to Cleveland’s best run since James joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018.
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.
More must-reads: