December 24, 2024
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Insider from the NBA provides a grounded perspective on the trade rumors surrounding a key player from the Cleveland Cavaliers.

NBA Analyst Warns Knicks to 'Look Out for' Rival in Donovan Mitchell Trade  Pursuit - Sports Illustrated

The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly not interested in trading their standout guard Donovan Mitchell during this season. Despite a somewhat challenging start to the season with a record of 18-14 in 32 games, the Cavaliers seem committed to retaining Mitchell. He is currently under contract until the 2024-25 season with a player option for the 2025-26 campaign.

Despite injuries to key players Evan Mobley and Darius Garland, the Cavs are focused on competing in the current season. According to a reliable NBA source, there is “zero interest” in trading the All-Star guard. The trade speculation surrounding Mitchell has arisen due to injuries to Garland (broken jaw) and Mobley (knee surgery), but the source indicates that these injuries are not season-ending, with both players expected to return in 4 to 6 weeks or possibly sooner.

Donovan Mitchell drops franchise record 71 in Cavs win - Card Chronicle

Even with Garland and Mobley sidelined, the Cavaliers maintain a competitive position in the Eastern Conference, currently holding the No. 6 seed. This suggests a strategic decision to keep the roster intact for the eventual return of these key players.

Mitchell has been the subject of trade rumors due to the possibility of him opting out of his contract after the 2024-25 season. If the Cavaliers cannot secure his re-signing, a trade might become necessary to gain value for the star guard. However, as of now, there is no indication that the team is actively pursuing such a move.

The Forces That Shaped Donovan Mitchell's 71-Point Night - WSJ

Mitchell’s exceptional performance this season, averaging 28.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, reinforces the Cavaliers’ belief in their ability to contend with him, Garland, and Mobley on the roster. The team finished with the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference last season and is currently only 1.5 games behind the No. 4 seed and four games behind the No. 3 seed in the East. The Cavaliers anticipate further improvement once their key players return to full health.

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