NBA exec expects Donovan Mitchell to leave Cavs next year

Donovan Mitchell is making a legitimate case for MVP this season, averaging 28.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.3 assists (all career highs) while carrying the Cavaliers to second seed in the East.

Yet, the widespread belief within the league is that Mitchell will depart from Cleveland when he hits free agency in 2025.

According to Howard Beck of The Ringer, Mitchell's immediate future in Cleveland hinges on the upcoming postseason. If the Cavs were to flame out of the first round again, Mitchell could ask to be traded. Conversely, if Mitchell declines a contract extension, the Cavs could preemptively trade him -- to ensure they don't lose him for nothing in the 2025 free-agency period.

"There's no doubt he's leaving once his contract ends," an Eastern Conference exec told Beck, echoing a belief held by others around the association.

Earlier this month, Jovan Buha of The Athletic reported that the Lakers have earmarked Mitchell, Trae Young and Kyrie Irving as three offseason trade targets. While the Lakers currently have only one tradeable first-round pick, they'll have up to three on the day of the 2024 NBA draft, giving them the requisite assets to pursue an All-Star caliber player. Per ESPN's DaveMcMenamin, the Lakers would gladly give up Austin Reaves and/or D'Angelo Russell if they could acquire Mitchell or Young.

Other teams such as the Knicks and Sixers -- both stacked with draft assets and potential cap space -- are also known to be circling around a potential trade for a superstar player. 

If the Cavs do make a deep postseason run this year, Mitchell would be wise to stay put, considering the talent that surrounds him. While Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen have already made All-Star teams in their young careers, many believe Evan Mobley is on a similar trajectory.