Rival exec on Donovan Mitchell: I think he signs extension in Cleveland

Everyone outside the NBA thinks that Donovan Mitchell and the Knicks are destined to be together. Or maybe it’s the Nets.

But those who actually work and live in the NBA don’t agree that Mitchell and the Cavaliers will part ways anytime soon. In fact, many who work within the NBA say they believe Mitchell will remain with the Cavs for an extended period.

As one Western Conference executive told Hoops Wire last week:

“I think, ultimately, Mitchell will decide the best path forward is to just sign an extension, stay in Cleveland, and let the organization keep building. He can play in New York closer to when he retires if that’s what he wants. New York isn’t going anywhere. It will always be there.”

Mitchell is the hottest name on the trade rumor mill, which is interesting. And it’s interesting because people around the NBA will tell you that every last Mitchell rumor has been fan- or media-generated. 

The truth is, Mitchell isn’t seeking a trade and the Cavs aren’t planning to trade him.

But now that the truth is starting to surface, social media has become fixated on when Mitchell is eligible for free agency — which comes after next season. He can pick up a player option then, too, and stay with the Cavs until 2026 before hitting free agency.

At that point, he’ll be 30 years old. 

Granted, Mitchell can indeed leave Cleveland as a free agent after next season. And the Cavs will have a decision to make over the summer, based on how extension talks go. But the Cavs aren’t in panic mode, as they’re getting no signs that Mitchell is itching to leave.

For now, the plan is to stay the course, build from within and let this group get accustomed to each other (if they ever get/stay healthy). No one predicted the Heat would reach the Finals or that the Nuggets would win the championship last season. 

But neither of those organizations was swayed by fans and media and the Cavaliers won’t be either, especially when it comes to their star player.