This NBA trade proposal sees the Cleveland Cavaliers part ways with All-Star Donovan Mitchell.
A blockbuster offseason NBA trade proposal where the Cleveland Cavaliers part ways with Donovan Mitchell has emerged.
NBA writer Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report proposed the following trade idea between the Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs:
San Antonio Spurs Receive: SG Donovan Mitchell
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: SG Dylan Harper, G/F Devin Vassell, 2027 first-round pick (via Atlanta Hawks), 2029 first-round pick (unprotected)
The Cavaliers acquired Mitchell from the Utah Jazz before the 2022-23 season. They haven't advanced past the second round of the playoffs in the Mitchell era.
If Cleveland fails in the 2026 playoffs, the Mitchell era may need to end.
"If the Cavs crash and burn in the playoffs and Mitchell refuses to sign an extension, Cleveland may be forced to listen to trade offers before he hits unrestricted free agency in 2027," Swartz wrote. "The Spurs have proven that they're ready to start competing for championships, yet could use more playoff experience on the roster.
"Cleveland may be forced to reset around Evan Mobley if Mitchell won't commit to the franchise. Harper, 20, was the No. 2 overall pick in last June's draft and looks like a future All-Star. Vassell, 25, is averaging 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists and making 38.3 percent of his threes this year and the Cavs pick up a pair of future first-round picks."
Mitchell wants to retire from the NBA with the Cavaliers, but again, if he can't lead this franchise to the promised land, a trade has to be considered by Koby Altman and co.
This trade proposal sees the Cavaliers acquire Harper, Vassell and draft picks for Mitchell. That's not a bad return at all.
Cleveland is currently in fourth place in the East. Mitchell is averaging 28.2 points, 4.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game this season while shooting 48.1% from the field, 36.5% from beyond the arc and 85.7% from the free-throw line.
If the Cavaliers falter in the 2026 playoffs, it will be fascinating to see what happens to the Wine and Gold's roster.
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