Even after the Sixers moved on from James Harden, they are still looking for ways to upgrade their roster. HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto revealed that Philly has their eyes set on several young stars to replace Harden, including Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell.
The Philadelphia 76ers are monitoring Donovan Mitchell’s situation in Cleveland, per @MikeAScotto
“Some potential targets to keep an eye on for Philadelphia include Zach LaVine, who can spread the floor and OG Anunoby, who is loved by coach Nick Nurse, which I think is… pic.twitter.com/zhLSLkZHx8
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 2, 2023
NBA Rumors: Philadelphia 76ers Eyeing Donovan Mitchell
Background
The Cleveland Cavaliers are 2-3 this season but are coming off of their best season in the post-LeBron James era: a fourth-place finish with a 51-31 record. It’s a noble achievement despite their first-round exit in the playoffs. Even with Mitchell at the helm of the promising Cavs, it seems the 27-year-old can’t stay out of trade rumors.
At the same time, however, it makes sense for Mitchell’s name to pop up given the pressure on the Cavs’ front office for next summer. The four-time All-Star will be making $34 million in the final year of his extension. He’ll also be eligible for a $37 million Player Option in 2025.
Despite a career year last season—where Mitchell averaged 28.3 points per game on 48% shooting from the field—the athletic guard was inefficient in the playoffs. During Cleveland’s series against the Knicks, Mitchell averaged 23.2 points per game on .433/.289/.722 splits. He’s turned the tables to begin this season and is off to an excellent start. Through five games, Mitchell is averaging 31.5 points per game on 51% shooting from the field and nearly 36% from deep.
The Cavs made solid improvements over the summer to address several needs. They traded for ex-Heat guard Max Strus, who played a key role in Miami’s Finals run last year. They also re-signed Caris LeVert, reunited with Tristan Thompson, signed Georges Niang and Ty Jerome, and brought in rookies on two-way contracts—including standout Emoni Bates. The Cavs opted for minor moves that could have a major impact. However, given the massive upgrades in the conference, it may not be enough to make a deep run.
For the Cavs, who are attempting to develop players and build momentum in a loaded East, a future with Mitchell seems untenable at the moment.
Donovan Mitchell to Philly: Does it Make Sense?
For the Sixers, poaching Mitchell from Cleveland is a solid idea. His role would change significantly—likely becoming the third option behind Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. It seems intriguing at first glance, given Mitchell’s status as a ball-dominant player. However, the possibility of three electric scorers joining forces could lead to some surprises if a trade materializes. Mitchell could move to a motivated squad trying to compete in the East and dismantle the trend of disappearing after the second round. Playing with last season’s MVP and a dynamic point guard is a chance that Mitchell would probably take in a heartbeat—even if it meant giving up his role as a top option.
Although the Sixers are right to keep Mitchell on their list of Harden replacements, it’s currently unlikely that Cleveland budges on a trade. The Cavs gave Utah Collin Sexton, Lauri Markkanen, Ochai Agbaji, and a plethora of picks and pick swaps in exchange for the four-time All-Star last September. Trading Mitchell for a package of role players and picks would swing any previous momentum in the opposite direction—going from a hopeful contender to another round of rebuilding. If things take a turn for the worse in Cleveland, then they’ll have to visit this conversation and take a look at what’s best for both Mitchell’s future and theirs.
The Last Word
The 76ers are clearly not done reshaping their roster, now attempting to run “The Process” through Embiid, Maxey, and whatever third star they acquire. Whether Mitchell is the right fit remains to be seen—as does Cleveland’s willingness to listen to trade offers for their current face of the franchise.
