Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star Linked to Championship Contender

Less than 24 hours after their playoff exit at the hands of the Boston Celtics, the Cleveland Cavaliers have many decisions to make this offseason. In addition to attempting to extend Donovan Mitchell‘s contract, reports are suggesting the Cavaliers may need to move on from another important guard. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Cavaliers may need to decide between Mitchell and one-time All-Star Darius Garland. Although Charania’s report is still fresh, a potential destination for Garland has already been revealed–the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to Evan Dammarell of Right Down Euclid.

Per Dammarell, the Timberwolves have eyed Garland since the 2019 NBA Draft.

For Garland, meanwhile, a source shared with Right Down Euclid that a dark horse that could try to acquire him is the Minnesota Timberwolves. Since 2018, when Minnesota tried to trade up to select Garland in the 2018 NBA Draft [sic], the Timberwolves have been fans of Garland’s game and need a succession plan for current starting veteran guard Mike Conley. Garland could fit that mold perfectly and could play in harmony next to Anthony Edwards as a pass-first, score-second option in a theoretical backcourt.

The 24-year-old had a bit of a down year with the Cavaliers this season. During the regular season, Garland averaged 18 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. Additionally, he shot 44.6% from the field and 37.1% from beyond the arc. All these numbers are the worst for the guard since the 2020-21 season, his second in the NBA.

Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star Linked to Championship Contender

How Likely Is a Darius Garland to Minnesota Timberwolves Trade?

As it is, it seems like a potential Garland trade hinges on Mitchell’s Cavaliers future. Although Mitchell has remained noncommital on a possible extension, recent reports indicate there is a “growing sentiment” that the two sides will agree to a long-term extension this summer. Assuming Mitchell stays, it seems more likely Garland could legitimately be on his way out. Although both guards are All-Star-caliber guards, their fit together remains questionable. Neither of them are great defenders, and both guards are ball-dominant. Neither guard complements each other too well, and ultimately, choosing Mitchell over Garland could be the best move for Cleveland’s championship hopes. Whether Garland gets shipped out to Minnesota or not remains unclear. However, Cleveland trading Garland away at some point this offseason seems more likely than not.

Other Teams Are Eying Darius Garland

Per Forbes’ Evan Sidery, “multiple teams” are keeping an eye on Garland’s status this offseason.