The Cleveland Cavaliers took a big swing last season when they traded for Donovan Mitchell. What appeared to be a home run move for the last few seasons could potentially turn sour depending on the result of this season.
Mitchell has undoubtedly been the Cavs’ premier player on a team with young stars like Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley. But the team’s ceiling has yet to look like one that reaches bona fide contender status over the last two years.
Could the Cleveland Cavaliers Be On The Verge Of Losing Donovan Mitchell?
Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert has gone on record saying that he wants to sign Mitchell to a long-term extension. But the 5-time All-Star has been reluctant to discuss his future with the team.
While Mitchell’s demeanor may just be to keep the focus on the season, a report from Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus may hint at something more. According the Pincus, people around the league believe Mitchell plans to turn down an extension with Cleveland and hit the open market.
The lone caveat to keep Mitchell is reportedly if the Cavs make a surprise run to the NBA Finals.
The buzz in NBA circles suggests that barring a run to the NBA Finals, Mitchell will decline an extension and look elsewhere, and the Cavaliers are more likely than not to move him well before he can leave outright as a free agent.
The Cavaliers would be able to offer him the most money among all teams and the team is reportedly willing to offer their star guard maximum money. However, money may not be the biggest motivator for Mitchell at this point in his career.
Donovan Mitchell’s Contract Situation With The Cleveland Cavaliers
Mitchell is making just under $33.2 million this season and over $35.4 million next season. The Cavs guard has a $37.1 million player option for the 2025-26 that he will more than likely forego in order to sign a long term extension with his team of choice.
The Louisville alum will be 29 — right in the middle of his prime — before the 2025-26 campaign. Mitchell will likely cash in on a massive deal that’s commensurate of his career apex.
Only time will tell if he’ll truly spurn the Cavs eventually and whether the team would be wise to trade him before that happens.