Key Takeaways:
– The Cleveland Cavaliers’ owner, Dan Gilbert, refuses to consider a potential trade of Donovan Mitchell to the Los Angeles Lakers.
– The Lakers have reportedly identified Mitchell as a top trade target.
– Donovan Mitchell led Cleveland to a playoff win this season, marking the Cavaliers’ first series victory since the departure of LeBron James in 2018.
– Despite a contract offer possibly exceeding $200 million, Mitchell could decline his $37.1 million player option to enter the free-agent market.
Cleveland Cavaliers Draw the Line on Mitchell Lakers Trade
In the world of NBA, certain conflicts linger unremittingly, even when they are not sparked by direct rivalries. An example of such a complication is the ongoing cold war between Cleveland Cavaliers owner, Dan Gilbert, and the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers reportedly aspire to secure Donovan Mitchell, one of the top candidates on their trade radar, as they make a strategic comeback following consecutive playoff losses to Denver Nuggets. However, Dan Gilbert has drawn a hard line, particularly about trading Mitchell to the Lakers.
Mitchell’s Stellar Performance and Upcoming Contract Decision
Mitchell, an exceptional player and five-time All-Star, played a crucial role in securing the Cavaliers’ first playoff series victory since the departure of LeBron James. Lebron left the Cavaliers in 2018 to join the Lakers, marking his second departure for a more prominent and dazzling market.
Mitchell’s regular season performance has been impressive, recording an average of 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game. His current contract extends until 2024-25, with a player option for the succeeding season valued at $37.1 million. Mitchell could opt to decline this to re-enter the free-agent market.
Possible Trade and Lakers’ Interest
According to a report by Ashish Mathur at Hoops Wire, Dan Gilbert affirmed he would ‘never’ trade Mitchell to the Lakers, blocking the Lakers’ number one trade goal before the offseason has even begun. Later, Jovan Buha of The Athletic echoed Gilbert’s sentiments and confirmed that, amid other options, the Lakers have their eyes set on Mitchell if they aim to follow the “three-star path.”
A Successful Run with Cavaliers and Future Lakers Deal
Mitchell has led the Cavs on an impressive run, bringing them triumph after their series win over the Orlando Magic. Despite all this, Mitchell can only land a spot with the Lakers in the next season if Gilbert and the Cavaliers decide to make a trade.
The Cavaliers’ quandary lies in Mitchell’s potential contract extension. They can offer him a five-year contract estimated at more than $270 million. Nevertheless, they run the risk of Mitchell being lured away by the lights of a larger city or a stronger chance of securing a title. If Mitchell is put on the trading block, it would generate substantial returns given his remarkable NBA career so far, as illustrated by the Lakers’ distinct interest in him.
Trade Possibilities Restricted to Cavaliers-Lakers
Despite existing conflicts, the Cavaliers might not need to make the trade deal with the Lakers. Jovan Buha also stated in his report that competing teams could outbid the Lakers if a prospective bidding war arises. However, it would be a risky game for Gilbert to play, considering the hefty price paid to bring Mitchell to the Cavaliers. The preference of Gilbert to avoid trading with the Lakers puts a parallel limitation on these possible trades.
In conclusion, while Donovan Mitchell’s future in the NBA remains uncertain, one fact remains clear. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ owner Dan Gilbert is not ready to handover their star player to the Lakers, irrespective of the potential trade benefits. The Cavaliers, Lakers, and Mitchell, thus, face a complex offseason of decisions and negotiations.