Kofi Inkoom
Cleveland Cavaliers star point guard, Donovan Mitchell, faces a significant decision this offseason when the team present him with a contract extension offer.
If Mitchell opts not to extend, it opens up the possibility of a trade, with several teams closely monitoring the situation due to their interest in acquiring him.
“The NBA, especially beginning with what Donovan says at the end of the season, is paying very close attention because multiple teams would love to make a huge offer to the Cavs if Donovan does not choose to extend his contract,” said Brian Windhorst on ESPN’s GetUp Show.
Mitchell has been evasive about his future with the Cavaliers when questioned during the season. Windhorst added that he doesn’t anticipate Mitchell explicitly stating a preference for a trade.
Even though Windhorst affirms the Cavs are hopeful about signing him. He further mentioned multiple teams have offers ready. Andraya asked about the Lakers, and Windhorst confirmed they’re prepared. When Mike asked about the Knicks, Windhorst suggested they’re focused on winning the Eastern Conference, hinting at Brooklyn’s interest.
Lakers, Nets Among NBA Teams ‘Ready’ with Trade Offers for Donovan Mitchell ; per @WindhorstESPN
“I’m trying to walk the line, because I don’t want anybody to freak out in my hometown of Cleveland, but there a number of teams that have their offers ready. They’re ready,”
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In addition to the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets, Mitchell has been linked to the Miami Heat and New York Knicks, both of which have offers prepared for the star point guard.
Mitchell can sign an extension for up to four years and around $200 million this summer. He holds a player option worth $37 million for the 2025-26 season.
If he declines the player option, Mitchell can become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2025. Mitchell posted averages of 26.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists this season, shooting 46.2% from the field, 36.8% from 3, and 86.5% from the free-throw line.
Cleveland trails 3-1 to the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2024 playoffs. Mitchell, sidelined for Game 4 due to a left calf injury, is also expected miss Game 5 as per Shams Charania of The Athletic.
With career averages of 24.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists with the Jazz and Cavaliers, Mitchell, a five-time All-Star, does not possess a no-trade clause in his contract.