One NBA writer is proposing that the San Antonio Spurs acquire Darius Garland from the Cleveland Cavaliers this offseason.
Our own James Piercey of NBA Analysis Network proposed that the Spurs send Keldon Johnson, Doug McDermott and a first-round pick in 2025 to the Cavaliers for Garland.
With the Cavaliers already building around a small guard in Donovan Mitchell, the rationale would be to balance the roster better by trading Garland. Adding a wing scorer like Johnson and a sharpshooter in McDermott could add needed dimensions to Cleveland.
“Garland and Donovan Mitchell may not be built to last,” Piercey wrote. “This deal aims to give the Cavs some more balance. After all, they were sorely lacking in wing depth this year. This deal has them bringing in two quality rotation players. Johnson would be a long-term starter – he actually has star upside. Meanwhile, having a knockdown shooter like McDermott would do wonders for their short-term outlook.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers & San Antonio Spurs Updates
The Spurs would add an intriguing backcourt talent to formulate a one-two punch with Victor Wembanyama by adding Garland. By adding a dynamic playmaker and scorer like Garland, San Antonio would gain a significant dynamic it currently lacks.
“The Spurs will be selecting Victor Wembanyama with the first overall pick in the NBA draft. That much is obvious,” Piercey explained. “Now, it’s a matter of what they do next. Should they opt for a slow rebuild? Perhaps. Another season in the lottery could arm the Spurs with Wembanyama’s co-star in the 2024 NBA Draft.
“On the other hand, the Spurs have got their cornerstone. Why not push all in? Pairing Wembanyama with an elite playmaker will help the Spurs get the most out of him from day one. If they want to make an immediate return to relevancy, this deal can help them get there. If nothing else, seeing the Spurs back in the playoffs will restore some balance in the universe.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers & San Antonio Spurs Updates
Garland put up 21.6 points, 2.7 rebounds and 7.8 assists per game this season for the Cavaliers while shooting 46.2% overall, 41.0% from 3 and 86.3% from the free-throw line. The one-time All-Star signed a five-year, $194.3 million designated rookie contract extension with Cleveland in July 2022.
The Cavaliers lost to the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2023 playoffs, while the Spurs won only 22 games.
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