Should the Cleveland Cavaliers consider addition by subtraction?

As all Cleveland Cavaliers fans know, the Cavs haven’t gotten off to the best start this season. They stumbled through an injury-plagued 1-4 start to the season and were 4-6 before a three-game winning streak that brought them back above .500 for the first time since Game 1.

With the Cavs addressing their small forward situation this offseason, there may not seem to be any other major problems. However, two lingering problems still exist: the size of their backcourt and the constant trade rumors about Donovan Mitchell.

There is a solution to both of these problems that was shown by the Philadelphia 76ers: addition by subtraction. The 76ers were able to improve their team by trading James Harden away. Many fans will hate this thought, but it may be a good idea to trade Donovan Mitchell for defense and or role players.

Firstly, Mitchell’s departure will allow Darius Garland and Evan Mobley space to improve. Although Mitchell has had a major impact on the Cavs’ organization, Garland has had to take a back seat to him. Without Mitchell, Garland can take over the lead guard spot and Mobley will be able to get more touches. Garland’s leap can be similar to that of 76ers’ guard, Tyrese Maxey.

Secondly, it will keep the Cavs from having the same problem as the Los Angeles Clippers: having too many stars/can’t get every star the ball. The Cavs have four All-Star caliber players in their starting lineup: Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. This can develop two issues: the one mentioned above and having to deal with the new CBA.

There are three trades that the Cavs could make with Mitchell. These deals might not be enough to convince the other teams, but these are the sorts of deals the Cavaliers would at least need to consider making.