‘Mixed Signals’ On Cavs’ Plans For Darius Garland This Summer

Will they or won’t they? That is the question when it comes to the Cleveland Cavaliers and point guard Darius Garland this summer.

And man, the rumor mill is a churning.

For starters, we’ve heard that Garland’s reps — namely, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports — will request a trade if Donovan Mitchell signs a contract extension. Now, let’s be clear, Mitchell and Garland have a great relationship and get along well.

But there are questions about the fit, reportedly from both the Cavs and from Paul. That’s not to say the Cavs are ready to give up on their backcourt. It just means there are still things to figure out.

We’ve also heard that the Cavs aren’t looking to move on from anyone in their so-called Core Four — Mitchell, Garland, Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen. That too would make sense. Yes, Garland had a subpar season. But do you really want to trade him for peanuts, only to watch him get his act together somewhere else?

Maybe. But maybe not, too.

As Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer wrote in his latest mock draft: “There’s mixed signals on Cleveland’s plans with Darius Garland this offseason, but it could be wise to flip him for a wing and then draft a new backcourt partner for Donovan Mitchell.”

(The Cavaliers, by the way, have the No. 20 overall pick in the June 26 draft. O’Connor has them taking Pittsburgh guard Carlton Carrington.)

Obviously, the key here is Mitchell. Having him agree to a max contract offer helps make all other offseason decisions easier. If the Cavs must choose between Mitchell and Garland, they’re choosing Mitchell. No one has said that — but it’s a no-brainer.

But they may not have given up on Garland, either. If a trade is requested, that’s one thing. If not, we could see the Cavs run it back with some changes around the edges, and obviously, a new coach.