The Cleveland Cavaliers are heading into a pivotal offseason. Despite adding Donovan Mitchell, the team has failed to elevate itself to true contender status. The core of Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen has kept the team competitive but not at a championship level.
Donovan Mitchell’s situation is the offseason’s main storyline. With a player option for the 2025-2026 season, there is significant speculation about his future. Despite this, the Cavaliers appear intent on retaining Mitchell and finding a way to succeed with the current roster.
Amid the focus on Mitchell, Darius Garland’s position has become uncertain. Rumors suggest that Garland could request a trade, but ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reports that the Cavaliers are not keen on moving him. With Garland under contract until 2027-2028, the team holds considerable leverage, though the situation could turn contentious if not managed carefully.
The Cavaliers need to reconsider their strategy with the current core. Keeping Mitchell to avoid losing him for nothing makes sense, but repeating the same approach with the existing roster may be misguided. Mitchell and Garland, both set to earn over $35 million next season, have not proven to be a complementary backcourt pair.
Evan Mobley’s development also raises questions. His stats show steady but unspectacular progress. Mobley’s fit with Jarrett Allen is another concern. While both are talented, their combined strengths and weaknesses do not seem to synergize effectively, leaving the Cavaliers in a state of perpetual mediocrity.
While the Cavaliers’ core players are undoubtedly skilled, their current configuration lacks the cohesion needed for greatness. To break free from their current trajectory, a significant roster shakeup may be necessary. The Cavaliers must consider bold changes this offseason to move from being a good team to a great one.
Stats courtesy of Basketball Reference. Contract figures courtesy of Spotrac.
