Around the internet, experts are making predictions about the NBA. Fools. Haven’t we learned our lesson? The NBA is the least predictable league in the world.
Yet, we insist on playing detective. Without fail, we will try to predict where star players are going. It always starts with rumors – we hear that a player may not be happy where he is, so we try to predict where they’ll go next. Often, those predictions end up failing us.
For example, take Donovan Mitchell. He’s widely expected to eventually leave the Cavaliers. Most are predicting that he’ll wind up on the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets. Fair. Mitchell is a New York native who is allegedly pining for a bigger market. Could he end up on the Memphis Grizzlies instead?
The Trade Proposal
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: G/F Luke Kennard, F/C Brandon Clarke, G/F Ziaire Williams, 2024 First-Round Pick (MEM), 2026 First-Round Pick (MEM), 2028 First-Round Pick (MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: G Donovan Mitchell
Meanwhile, there are more predictions to make than ever before. That’s because player movement is at an all-time high. Think about it. Mitchell has been the subject of trade speculation all summer. Yet, he’s not even at the top of the list of the most talked about trade targets – in spite of being an NBA superstar.
Partly, that’s because some trade chatter is based on more than rumors. Damian Lillard and James Harden have both formally requested trades. Otherwise, NBA fans have their eyes on even bigger names than Mitchell. As talented as he is, he can’t trump trade rumors based on Giannis Antetokoumnpo and Joel Embiid.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
This is the NBA’s new landscape. Star players request trades more frequently than ever before. Accordingly, teams are more inclined to move them if they think they could leave. Could the Cavaliers really move Mitchell already?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
Sure – if the rumors are true. If Mitchell sees a future for himself in Cleveland, they’ve got no reason to make this deal. On the other hand, if he really is killing time before his contract runs out, the Cavs have to move him. Otherwise, they won’t get anything in return for him.
Here, they’re getting plenty. In terms of incoming players, the return is highlighted by Williams. He’s got star potential, and he’s the type of big wing this team has been missing. Still, Kennard is a useful floor spacer, and Clarke is a versatile combo big who could allow the Cavaliers to experiment with different lineups in their frontcourt.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Still, the Cavs do this deal for the draft capital first and foremost. They sent out the same number of picks to acquire Mitchell. Here, they regain some of their future flexibility. Should the Grizzlies help them get more flexible?
Why The Memphis Grizzlies Do The Deal
Some Grizzlies fans will be apprehensive about this deal. They’ve got their backcourt of the future solidified, don’t they? Ja Morant and Desmond Bane are among the most talented young backcourt duos in the NBA.
We agree. At the same time, Bane can play the 3. Those three-guard lineups could be especially appealing with Jaren Jackson Jr. and Steven Adams up front. Those two can anchor a strong enough defense to compensate for the Grizzlies’ lack of size throughout the rest of their starting lineup. The offensive power of a Morant / Mitchell pairing may also outweigh any concerns on the other end of the floor.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
At the same time – can Memphis really rely on Morant? He’s set to kick this season off serving a suspension. If Mitchell and Bane were to thrive in his absence, who knows? Morant’s name could be the next one we’re making predictions about.
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