Cavs Pull Out Of Donovan Mitchell Trade Talks With Jazz

While the Cavaliers had an interest in available Jazz star Donovan Mitchell, that interest appears to have reached an end. At least for now.

Per Ian Begley of SNY.tv, the Cavs have “removed themselves” from the Mitchell sweepstakes — perhaps because of Utah’s high asking price. As Begley went on to suggest, it’s unlikely that any other suitors can match the Knicks when it comes to reaching the sky-high return sought by Jazz CEO Danny Ainge.

Along with the Cavs and Knicks, the Wizards and Hornets have been linked to trade talks for Mitchell. Several others have also explored a Mitchell trade, sources said, though did not specify which teams.

Nonetheless, the Cavs remained active in talks, and it’s pretty clear the Jazz have a strong interest in Collin Sexton, the restricted free agent who remains unsigned.

The Cavs and Jazz could still talk sign-and-trade on Sexton without Mitchell being involved, sources said. Along with Sexton, the Cavs have also made Cedi Osman available in talks throughout the offseason, as we relayed previously.

The primary untouchables on the Cavs’ roster at the moment are All-Stars Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen, as well as All-Rookie member Evan Mobley.

It is believed the Jazz may have been asking for Lauri Markkanen as part of a Mitchell deal.

While the Cavs aren’t feeling any pressure to make a major deal, they have expressed an openness about everyone other than the m aforementioned “Big Three” being available for the right player.

Mitchell, 25, is 6-foot-1 and has spent his entire career with the Jazz. He averaged 25.9 points, 5.2 assists and 4.3 rebounds in 67 games last season. While the Jazz are open to keeping him, it is seeming less and less likely he will return to Utah.

At last check, the Knicks had proposed a package of five first-round draft picks, as well as Obi Toppin and Evan Fournier … all for Mitchell. So far, it’s been a case of no deal as Ainge holds out for more.