What if Cavs, Wolves, Hawks never made their blockbuster trades?
What if the Cavaliers never traded for Donovan Mitchell?
The Timberwolves and Hawks both overpaid for trades that haven’t changed their short-term outlooks. The Cavaliers sent a lot to the Utah Jazz for Donovan Mitchell, but the difference is that they are at 48 wins and are in position to have homecourt advantage in a competitive Eastern Conference.
What if the trade never happened? Lauri Markkanen would still be starting at small forward for the Cavaliers. He has had a true breakout season for the Jazz this season, making the All-Star Game and in contention for an All-NBA spot as well. How much of that leap is a result of playing in a new offensive system that is focused around him, and flush with floor spacing, and how much would have happened if he stayed in Cleveland? It’s impossible to tell, but likely at least some of that growth could have happened with the Cavs.
They would also have Ochai Agbaji, who has steadily improved over the course of his rookie season and would likely be a solid rotation piece and a future starter at the 2 for Cleveland. Evan Mobley would be playing a larger role without Mitchell in town, and while their offense would likely be worse their defense would be even better.
Would Darius Garland have ascended into being that lead on-ball creator at the level that Mitchell has played at this year? It’s possible that he would, as his combination of shooting, playmaking and scoring is special and playing alongside Mitchell has hidden his growth. Even so, the way that Mitchell can score is truly special, and his volume shooting has stretched opposing defenses to the breaking point.
Next. Top 5 Cavs seasons: Where does this impressive Wine and Gold season land?. dark
The Cavaliers without Donovan Mitchell would have made the playoffs this season, but they would be further down the standings and their championship equity would be much lower. They would have a talented core, but the path to winning a title would be much murkier than it is now. Mitchell gives them a true No. 1 option and undoing the trade wouldn’t put them in a better spot.