Cavs, Magic Have ‘Framework’ For Blockbuster Trade

Given the respective needs of Cleveland and Orlando, such a trade would likely benefit both teams. Nevertheless, it’s a hypothetical blockbuster that needs serious inspection.

Cavs, Magic Have Framework For Darius Garland-Jalen Suggs Trade

Darius Garland, now a two-time All-Star, was selected fifth overall in the 2019 NBA Draft. The Cavs have invested plenty of resources in the skilled point guard, who has averaged 20.6 points and 7.4 assists per game over the past four seasons. One of the best snipers in the league, Garland’s already third in franchise history in career 3s (897).

Jalen Suggs was also a fifth overall pick, though in the 2021 NBA Draft. To this point in his career, he hasn’t earned an All-Star selection. However, he’s a stout perimeter defender, even getting a vote for Defensive Player of the Year in 2023-24. As he’s grown more confident, he’s become a more impactful scorer, averaging a career-high 16.2 points per game in 2024-25.

Why The Cavs Make The Trade

Though Garland has taken strides as a defender, swapping him for Suggs still allows the Cavs to improve their point-of-attack in a meaningful way. He’s pressing up, moving players off their spots. Flying in for steals in blocks. Hustling.

Suggs isn’t quite as potent a scorer, but that may not bother Cleveland as much as it would another team. Donovan Mitchell has made a career out of being an offensive engine. 2025 Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley has the potential to make more of a dent on the scoreboard. De’Andre Hunter is coming off of a career season. 2025 Sixth Man of the Year finalist Ty Jerome could return in free agency.

The ease with which opposing point guards have had success against them is still a weakness though and it just reared it’s ugly head in the playoffs.

Why The Magic Make The Trade

The Magic don’t have the luxury of a third option, which was their problem in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

Cole Anthony is a firecracker, but may or may not explode. More importantly, he’s a player whose future in Orlando isn’t secured. Anthony Black, more of a defensive specialist, is a work in progress. Not only does Black need to grow more comfortable as a scorer, he needs to refine his guard skills. If that doesn’t happen, team leaders Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner aren’t left with enough support at that end.

Garland would fix that. The hope would be that he retains his recent defensive intensity. Nevertheless, the need for a third option is so great that Orlando might be willing to overlook it.