NBA Trade Rumors: Cavs' Darius Garland Becomes Trade Candidate; Linked to 1 Team

The latest rumors have the potential of Donovan Mitchell actually considering signing a long-term extension to stay in Cleveland with the Cavaliers. If that happens, say insiders, Darius Garland could be on the way out of The Land.

According to Shams Charania, Joe Vardon and Jason Lloyd in The Athletic:

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. Should Mitchell decide to stay long term, sources briefed on the matter say Garland’s representation, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, would have a conversation with Cavs officials on potentially finding a new home for the one-time All-Star.

One team already potentially lined up is the San Antonio Spurs.

“Sources have informed NBA Analysis Network that the San Antonio Spurs are among various organizations that have conducted due diligence on Garland as a potential trade candidate,” Grant Afseth wrote. “The Spurs seek a talented playmaking guard to pair with Victor Wembanyama. Some within San Antonio’s organization are believed to have more interest in Garland than Trae Young.”

Indeed, a duo of Garland and Rookie of the Year Wembanyama would be a dynamic and exciting pairing to see. The idea of pursuing Garland more than Trae Young is understandable, as Young would be far more ball-dominant and demand as much of the limelight as Wemby, which, of course, is not a sustainable plan going forward in Wembayama's meteorite rise to superstardom.

Garland, 24, has career marks of 18.4 points, 6.7 assists ad 2.6 rebounds, while shooting 38.4% from long range.