5 Best Destinations For Darius Garland If The Cavs Keep Donovan Mitchell

The Cleveland Cavaliers' playoff run ended in disappointment as they fell 4-1 to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals. The loss immediately sparked rumors of possible roster changes for Cleveland. All season long, speculation has surrounded Donovan Mitchell’s potential departure, but a new twist emerged: the Cavs might reportedly try to retain Mitchell and instead trade Darius Garland, who struggled in the playoffs. Mitchell, visibly frustrated with Garland's lack of maturity and production per different reports, led the team in the postseason while several players fell short of expectations.

Mitchell's leadership and performance have positioned him as the cornerstone of the Cavs' playoff aspirations. With Mitchell entering the final year of his contract in 2024-25, the Cavaliers might consider trading Garland to acquire pieces that could persuade their star shooting guard to stay and sign an extension, ensuring the team remains competitive.

1. The Atlanta Hawks Get A Change Of Scenery

Atlanta Hawks receive: Darius Garland, Caris LeVert

Cleveland Cavaliers receive: Trae Young

The Atlanta Hawks had a rollercoaster season, finishing with a 36-46 record and missing the playoffs. Trae Young, despite averaging 25.7 points, 10.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in 54 games this season, has been the subject of trade rumors, particularly to the San Antonio Spurs. With Young's fit in question, the Hawks could decide to move on from their star point guard and shift their focus to Dejounte Murray.

By acquiring Darius Garland and Caris LeVert, the Hawks would be bringing in two talented players who can help balance their roster. Garland, despite his disappointing playoff performance with averages of 15.7 points, 5.8 assists, and 3.6 rebounds in 12 games, is a young and promising guard with the potential to thrive in a new environment. LeVert adds scoring and versatility on the wing, providing additional offensive firepower.

This move would allow Atlanta to build around Dejounte Murray, who can become the focal point of their offense. Murray's defensive prowess and playmaking abilities make him an excellent fit to lead the Hawks, potentially forming a dynamic backcourt with Garland. This trade could rejuvenate the Hawks' lineup and help them become a more balanced and competitive team in the Eastern Conference.

For the Cavaliers, this trade would pair Trae Young with Donovan Mitchell, creating one of the most electrifying backcourts in the NBA. Cleveland finished the regular season with a 45-37 record, securing a playoff spot but ultimately falling short against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Bringing in Young could be the catalyst the Cavs need to make a deeper playoff run.

Trae Young's ability to score and create plays at an elite level complements Mitchell's scoring prowess. This dynamic duo would put constant pressure on opposing defenses, creating opportunities for their teammates. With Young's playmaking skills, players like Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen could see increased scoring chances, while Mitchell can focus more on his scoring efficiency.

2. The Spurs Find Their Needed Point Guard For The Future

San Antonio Spurs receive: Darius Garland

Cleveland Cavaliers receive: Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, 2026 first-round pick

The San Antonio Spurs have been searching for a point guard to pair with Victor Wembanyama, who was the unanimous Rookie of the Year. This trade would bring in Darius Garland, a talented young guard who could run the offense and complement Wembanyama's skills.

Keldon Johnson averaged 15.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 69 games this season. His scoring and versatility would be a valuable addition to the Cavaliers. Jeremy Sochan, known for his defensive capabilities and potential, brings additional depth to Cleveland's frontcourt. This season, Sochan averaged 11.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 68 games.

The Spurs finished the 2023-24 season with a 22-60 record, clearly in a rebuilding phase. Adding Garland would give them a dynamic playmaker to lead the team alongside Wembanyama. Garland's ability to create offense and facilitate would significantly enhance the Spurs' young core, setting them up for future success.

For the Cavaliers, this trade brings in two promising players in Johnson and Sochan, along with a future first-round pick. Johnson’s scoring and versatility address Cleveland's need for wing depth, making him a valuable addition to the roster. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor provides the Cavs with the flexibility they need.

Sochan's defensive skills and potential for growth add depth to Cleveland's frontcourt. His hustle and defensive mindset would complement the team's existing players, such as Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, creating a stronger defensive presence.

3. A New Point Guard In Windy City

Chicago Bulls receive: Darius Garland

Cleveland Cavaliers receive: Coby White, DeMar DeRozan

In this trade scenario, the Chicago Bulls address their point guard needs while the Cleveland Cavaliers acquire valuable assets to enhance their roster. Coby White has averaged 19.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in 79 games this season. DeMar DeRozan, who would need to be part of a sign-and-trade as he enters free agency, averaged 22.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 64 games.

The Bulls struggled this season, finishing with a 39-43 record and narrowly missing the playoffs. With Lonzo Ball's ongoing injury issues, acquiring Darius Garland would provide a reliable and dynamic point guard to lead their offense. Garland’s playmaking and scoring ability would fit well alongside Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, forming a potent offensive trio.

For the Cavaliers, adding Coby White and DeMar DeRozan provides both immediate talent and future flexibility. White's ability to score and facilitate would complement Donovan Mitchell, allowing him to focus more on his scoring. DeRozan's veteran presence and versatile scoring would add depth and experience to the Cavs’ lineup.

This trade enhances the Cavaliers by adding a versatile guard in White, who can contribute in multiple ways, and a proven scorer in DeRozan. The combination of these players supports Mitchell by diversifying the offensive threats, making the Cavs a more formidable offensive team, something they have been lacking in the Eastern Conference.

4. Garland Makes His Way To New Orleans

New Orleans Pelicans receive: Darius Garland

Cleveland Cavaliers receive: CJ McCollum, José Alvarado, 2025 first-round pick (via Lakers), 2027 first-round pick (via Bucks)

In this trade scenario, the New Orleans Pelicans acquire a young and dynamic point guard in Darius Garland, while the Cleveland Cavaliers receive a mix of veteran presence and future assets to bolster their roster behind Donovan Mitchell’s scoring.

CJ McCollum has averaged 20.0 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds in 66 games this season. José Alvarado provides defensive tenacity and energy off the bench, contributing 7.8 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game as the bench piece that can help out on the perimeter besides one elite scorer to balance the offensive and defensive approach.

The Pelicans finished the 2023-24 season with a 49-33 record, securing a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. Adding Garland would give them a young, talented point guard to pair with Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, forming a formidable trio. Garland's playmaking and scoring ability would complement Williamson's inside presence and Ingram's versatile scoring, making the Pelicans a more dynamic and balanced team.

For the Cavaliers, this trade provides immediate help and future flexibility. Adding CJ McCollum brings veteran leadership and scoring prowess. McCollum's ability to create his own shot and facilitate for others fits well alongside Donovan Mitchell, potentially forming a high-scoring backcourt. Alvarado's defensive skills add depth to Cleveland's bench, providing a spark and defensive intensity.

This trade benefits Cleveland by enhancing their roster's versatility and depth. McCollum's experience and scoring ability would alleviate some of the offensive burden on Mitchell, allowing him to be more efficient. Alvarado's defensive presence would improve the team's overall defensive capabilities, adding a gritty edge to their lineup.

Additionally, acquiring future first-round picks gives the Cavaliers the flexibility to further strengthen their team through the draft or use the picks as assets in potential future trades. This trade positions the Cavaliers to be competitive in the short term while also planning for the future.

5. Garland Heads To Orlando in Major Trade

Orlando Magic receive: Darius Garland

Cleveland Cavaliers receive: Jonathan Isaac, Cole Anthony, 2024 first-round pick, 2027 first-round pick

In this trade scenario, the Orlando Magic bolster their backcourt with a young, dynamic point guard in Darius Garland, while the Cleveland Cavaliers receive a mix of defensive prowess, young talent, and valuable future draft picks.

Jonathan Isaac has been a crucial piece for the Magic this season, contributing 6.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game across 58 appearances. His defensive capabilities and versatility have played a significant role in Orlando's successful 47-35 season, which saw them secure a playoff berth. Cole Anthony has also been a key player for the Magic, providing 11.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 81 games. His scoring ability and playmaking skills have been vital for Orlando's offensive efforts.

The Orlando Magic finished the 2023-24 season with a 47-35 record, securing a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference. Adding Garland would significantly improve their point guard position, providing a reliable playmaker and scorer to pair with rising star Paolo Banchero. Garland’s ability to orchestrate the offense and create scoring opportunities would complement Banchero’s versatile game, making the Magic a more formidable team.

For the Cavaliers, this trade enhances their defensive capabilities and adds depth to their roster. Jonathan Isaac's defensive prowess would be a valuable addition, providing the Cavs with a versatile forward who can guard multiple positions and protect the rim. Cole Anthony’s scoring and playmaking abilities would add depth to the backcourt, ensuring the Cavs maintain a strong guard rotation.

This trade benefits the Cavaliers by providing a blend of immediate talent and future assets. Isaac’s defensive skills and Anthony’s versatility would enhance the Cavs' overall team structure. The inclusion of two future first-round picks offers the Cavaliers flexibility to further strengthen their team through the draft or use the picks as trade assets.

With this improved roster, Donovan Mitchell would have a stronger supporting cast, potentially leading to better team performance and deeper playoff runs. The additional defensive presence and offensive depth would allow Mitchell to focus more on his strengths, making the Cavaliers a more balanced and competitive team.