Cavs Rumors: Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, De’Andre Hunter, Dean Wade

The Cavaliers are no longer living off last season’s glow.

After a 64-win regular season, Cleveland sits at 15–14, seventh in the East and uncomfortably close to the play-in line.

The past few weeks haven’t helped. Losses have piled up, including one to a Warriors team missing its stars, followed by a narrow escape against Washington and defeats to Charlotte and Chicago.

Around the league, the question is starting to surface. Is this just a rough stretch, or something deeper?

According to league sources cited by Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal, there’s a growing belief that Cleveland may have to consider a significant move if things don’t stabilize soon. That could mean a roster shake-up. It could mean a coaching change. Or both.

No move is believed to be imminent. But the conversations are happening.

Atkinson Under Microscope

Externally, there are questions about coach Kenny Atkinson and whether his strengths align with where the team is now.

“Kenny does a great job of building up a young team into a winning program,” one source told Afseth. “Does it stop there, though?”

If Cleveland were to move in a different direction, sources say Donovan Mitchell would prefer assistant coach Johnnie Bryant as an interim option.

Again, nothing is imminent. But it’s on the board.

Garland’s Name Circulating

Among roster possibilities, Darius Garland continues to draw attention from rival teams. Around the NBA, he’s viewed as a lower-risk trade target compared to other star guards who may or may not surface.

“Darius is the safest option on the trade market for a team seeking a point guard upgrade,” one source told Afseth.

There’s also a league-wide perception that Garland may eventually want the chance to run his own team again, rather than operate alongside Mitchell, Afseth reported.

The Kings and Timberwolves have monitored Garland’s situation, though constructing a deal would be difficult for either.

Allen Less Likely to Move

Cleveland’s stance on Jarrett Allen appears firmer.

While teams around the league are always shopping for centers, sources say it’s hard to envision Cleveland moving Allen to another Eastern Conference team unless the return is overwhelming.

“Unless the package was irresistible,” one source told Afseth, “it’s hard to see it.”

Margin Moves Falling Flat

Part of the frustration stems from roster decisions around the edges. The De’Andre Hunter trade has not delivered the intended impact. Max Strus is making significant money and hasn’t appeared in a game this season.

“The Cavs are not as deep as they thought they’d be,” one executive said. “They’ve struck out on the margins.”

With limited flexibility, meaningful changes won’t be easy.

Name to Monitor

Beyond the headliners, one smaller piece could matter.

Dean Wade, on an expiring $6.6 million deal, is viewed by league sources as a player to keep an eye on as the deadline approaches. He doesn’t move headlines. He moves math.

And right now, Cleveland may need both.