SUMMARY
- The Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks are preparing to acquire Donovan Mitchell.
- Donovan Mitchell is showing signs that he wants to leave Cleveland Cavaliers.
The Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks have come up as key players in the potential acquisition of Donovan Mitchell. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, speaking on The Hoop Collective podcast, stated that both teams are preparing to acquire Donovan Mitchell. This news adds another layer to the already intense rivalry between the Nets and the Knicks, who share not only a city but now a common target.
Mitchell, who is currently with the Cleveland Cavaliers, has been the subject of trade speculation. Despite an impressive season where he’s averaging 27.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists, uncertainties about his future with the Cavaliers have sparked these rumors. Windhorst highlighted that the Nets and the Knicks are “riding on the line” for Mitchell, suggesting that they are the first if he becomes available.
“[The Knicks & Nets], those are two teams where Donovan Mitchell I think would have a good chance of resigning. If they got into a bidding war, that could be interesting” – @WindhorstESPN
“What about the Miami Heat?” – @espn_macmahon
“Yes. Of course the Heat” – @WindhorstESPN https://t.co/56Iikf5wIa pic.twitter.com/NUXLvMPn9N
— Dru (@dru_star) December 19, 2023
The New York Knicks are seen as the favorites in this chase. Their collections of picks could be appealing in a trade scenario with the Cavaliers. However, the Brooklyn Nets, after the blockbuster deal involving Kevin Durant, the Nets have restored their draft capital, positioning them as strong contenders in any bidding war for Mitchell.
The Miami Heat are also reportedly in the line, adding another layer to this drama. The question now is not just about where Mitchell will go, but also about the potential impact on the teams involved.
Will the Cleveland Cavaliers trade Donovan Mitchell?
Mitchell, who is under contract until next year with a player option for 2025-26, has not shown clear signs that he wants to go. The Cavaliers hold the advantage of being able to offer Mitchell a more attractive deal than any other team, because of his Bird rights. This financial advantage could be a big factor in convincing him to stay.
However, the team faces structural problems, especially in the backcourt. Mitchell and Darius Garland are both talented players but they have overlapping roles that could hinder Garland’s development and the team’s overall chemistry. If Mitchell expresses a desire to leave, the Cavaliers would have to move Mitchell to recover their investment.The lack of a strong supporting cast in Cleveland might cause Mitchell to look for opportunities elsewhere. Teams like the New York Knicks and Miami Heat, with their rosters, could offer Mitchell a more competitive environment that would better suit his goals. This scenario leaves the Cavaliers in a tough position. They must balance their immediate competitive goals with long-term strategic planning.