The Cavs signed Donovan Mitchell to a 3-year 150 million dollar extension, keeping him in Cleveland until at least 2027. Guard Darius Garland has been in trade talks this offseason. His representation, Klutch Sports, has said that they will look to find a suitor for the 24-year-old former All-Star if Mitchell extends with the Cavs. However, trade rumors have seemingly dried up. So What’s next for Darius Garland?
What Does Donovan Mitchell’s Extension Mean for Darius Garland?
Disappointing 2023-24
After a relatively impressive 2022-23, in his first season paired with Mitchell. Garland took a step back in 2023-24. His season was full of injuries after he suffered a broken jaw in December. At the time Garland was averaging 20.8 points per game, right around where he was the last two seasons. However, after his return from injury in late January he struggled, averaging 16.6 points per game. The tally would have been his second lowest scoring season just above his rookie year.
The injury had an impact on him physically. Garland’s mouth was wired shut for four weeks due to the injury, during which he would lose 12 pounds. He was unable to eat like normal and it had an obvious impact on him once he returned. His struggles continued into the playoffs as he shot just 42.7%. Once Mitchell went down in the Boston series, Garland was unable to pick up the slack as the team lost both games he missed. However, a healthy summer and a new head coach could be just what Garland needs to return to form.
Trade Rumors
Garland’s poor performance has led to trade rumors swirling this offseason. It was initially thought that Garland could wind up in San Antonio to pair him with Victor Wembanyama. This past week, however, the Spurs signed veteran Chris Paul to a deal ruling out any real chance they make a move. At this point, the rumors are dying down and ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has noted this is a ‘terrible time‘ to trade Garland. He believes it would be difficult for the Cavs to find value for Garland. The Atlanta Hawks dealt Dejounte Murray recently to New Orleans yielding two players and picks. Cleveland would likely want more in return for Garland, despite the trade market being dry. Garland is under contract in Cleveland until 2028.
What’s Next For Garland
It’s unlikely at this point that the Cavs move on from Garland or that he formally put in a trade request. This means he will return to the Cavs to continue his partnership with Donovan Mitchell. The two have been a formidable duo when healthy. Mitchell and Garland have only played 95 games together over the last two seasons. In those 95 games, Garland averages 19.5 points per game while shooting efficiently. With some consistency this season we could see Darius Garland flourish under Kenny Atkinson this fall.
Despite all the rumors, signs point to Garland being a Cavalier next season and for the foreseeable future. The team believes in him to have a bounce-back campaign and return to All-Star form. He is crucial to the success of this Cavaliers team.
