The Cleveland Cavaliers’ season is on the brink of ending, and with it comes many questions about the team’s future. Donovan Mitchell‘s absence in Game 5 due to a calf injury has added to the uncertainty, and his potential extension looms large over the team’s NBA offseason plans.
Mitchell faces a big decision this offseason when the Cavaliers offer him a contract extension. If he chooses not to extend, a trade becomes possible, and several teams are closely monitoring the situation due to their interest in acquiring him.
According to Brian Windhorst, the NBA is keenly awaiting Mitchell’s end-of-season statement, as several teams are eager to make lucrative offers to the Cavaliers if he decides not to extend his contract, sparking a highly anticipated offseason scenario.
“The NBA, especially beginning with what Donovan says at the end of the season, is paying very close attention because multiple teams would love to make a huge offer to the Cavs if Donovan does not choose to extend his contract,” Windhorst said.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, Brooklyn Nets Updates
When asked during the season, Mitchell has been non-committal about his future with the Cavaliers. Windhorst added that he doesn’t expect Mitchell to indicate he would prefer to be traded explicitly.
The Cavaliers traded for Mitchell before the 2021-22 season, with the Utah Jazz also receiving interest from teams like the New York Knicks and Miami Heat. Mitchell can become a free agent in 2024.
Windhorst stated that the Cavaliers are internally optimistic about re-signing him. NBA Analysis Network has previously reported Mitchell’s likelihood to re-sign and Cleveland’s desire to make changes to the supporting cast around him.
“There is an optimism within that organization that they’re going to sign him.”
Windhorst mentioned several teams have substantial trade offers ready, including the Lakers and Nets. The New York Knicks, focused on winning the Eastern Conference, are not a likely destination.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, Brooklyn Nets Updates
The Cavaliers’ future hangs in the balance as they face elimination in Game 5. The offseason promises to be eventful, with Mitchell’s decision at the forefront of the team’s plans. One thing is certain—changes are coming, and Cleveland’s future will be shaped by the choices made in the coming months.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network.
