Following a 113-98 loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 5 on Wednesday, the 2023-24 season for the Cleveland Cavaliers officially came to an end. Up next? A likely divorce.
Klutch Sports will reportedly reach out to the Cavaliers to facilitate a Darius Garland trade in the event that Donovan Mitchell returns to the team on a long-term contract.
Klutch Sports will indeed meet with the Cavaliers this offseason to facilitate Darius Garland being traded, if Donovan Mitchell decides to stay, @WindhorstESPN confirmed on @ESPNCleveland.
The Mitchell/Garland backcourt is on their way to being split up. pic.twitter.com/ejRbSjZ1xN
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) May 17, 2024
Shams Charania, Joe Vardon and Jason Lloyd of The Athletic also report that “rival executives believe the Cavs will have to seriously evaluate the fit of Mitchell and Garland and ultimately may have to choose one or the other.”
Mitchell remains under contract for one more season with a player option for 2025-26. Garland, meanwhile, is signed through the 2027-28 season.
All of the contracts and potential decisions aside, it’s clear that change is brewing in Cleveland and there’s little hope for a reconciliation. Those hard feelings weren’t helped by the recent reports that Mitchell was frustrated with his teammates, something he later denied.
Whatever decision the Cavaliers ultimately decide to make, either Mitchell or Garland will likely be sent packing. And both will have potential suitors.
