Why Cleveland Cavaliers could try to trade Donovan Mitchell over the offseason

Why Cleveland Cavaliers could try to trade Donovan Mitchell over the offseason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

By all accounts, the relationship between star guard Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers is strong.

However, there is a scenario in which the Cavs could try to trade Mitchell over the offseason, according to Fred Katz of The Athletic. That scenario would be if Mitchell opted against signing the massive extension that he will be eligible for over the offseason.

Cavaliers could look to trade Donovan Mitchell if he doesn't sign extension

If Mitchell refused to sign an extension, the Cavs could decide to be proactive and shop him around while he's still near the peak of his powers in order to recoup some value, as opposed to potentially losing him for nothing in free agency next summer.

From Katz:

"Meanwhile, Mitchell, who can hit free agency in 2027, becomes eligible for an extension this summer. If he signs it, the Cavs can move forward with him at their core. If he doesn’t, the organization will discuss the possibility of moving him, league sources said."

Mitchell currently has two years remaining on his current contract, but the second year is a player option for the 2027-28 season that he could opt to turn down in favor of a new deal in free agency.

The Cavs obviously don't want it to come to that, as they would clearly prefer to lock him up long-term or trade him while his value is still high enough to command a substantial return.