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Cleveland Cavaliers: West Team ‘Monitoring’ Donovan Mitchell’s Situation ‘for Months’ Amid Intensifying Trade Buzz

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Paolo Songco | Last updated 5/23/24

The buzz surrounding Donovan Mitchell’s uncertain future with the Cleveland Cavaliers is getting louder and louder. This is after the Cavs suffered a second-round loss to the Boston Celtics in the East, thereby putting Mitchell’s commitment to the cause in Cleveland into question.

Should Mitchell suddenly become available on the trade market, one team that will reportedly make their presence felt is the Houston Rockets.

Cleveland Cavaliers News: Houston Rockets Monitoring Donovan Mitchell Situation

The Rockets could emerge as a major player in a potential Mitchell sweepstakes. The fact that Houston is in possession of the No. 3 overall pick for the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft means that they could conjure up a very attractive trade package for the Cavs — one that could include a host of future-facing assets that Cleveland will need if they opt to move on from Mitchell.

This report comes via league insider Kelly Iko of The Athletic:

“The Rockets are among those interested in the 27-year-old and have been monitoring his situation for months, league sources say. The Cavaliers guard’s delay in inking a long-term extension, coupled with another disheartening playoff exit, only adds to speculation about his future,” Iko wrote.

Mitchell, at least on paper, seems like an excellent fit for the Rockets. This team has a considerable amount of young and promising talent, which should benefit from the addition of a bona fide superstar.

Any side that will want to trade for Mitchell will need to come up with a massive haul for the Cavs, and it appears that Houston is one of a few teams that could be capable of doing the same.