**Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans – Game Three**
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans – Game Three / Sean Gardner/GettyImages
NBA Insider Michael Scotto shared insights from Cleveland Cavaliers insider Chris Fedor, shedding light on the Cavs’ offseason strategies.
Recently, the Cavaliers reaffirmed their commitment to keeping former All-Star Darius Garland, making him almost untouchable in trade discussions. Rumors had surfaced about Garland’s potential departure following the season and a report from The Athletic suggested that Garland’s agents at Klutch Sports might discuss a trade if Donovan Mitchell signed a lucrative extension this offseason. With Mitchell likely staying in Cleveland, Garland’s future appeared uncertain.
The San Antonio Spurs initially showed interest in Garland, but the New Orleans Pelicans also emerged as potential contenders. Following a disappointing first-round performance, the Pelicans reportedly hesitated to offer former All-Star forward Brandon Ingram a max extension, suggesting a potential split. Given their similar contracts and complementary skills, a Garland-Ingram trade seemed plausible.
However, according to Scotto, the Cavaliers are not interested in acquiring Ingram. Trading for Ingram, who is entering the final year of his contract, would require the Cavs to offer the max deal the Pelicans wouldn’t, complicating matters as they plan max extensions for Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell.
While the Pelicans might value Garland in a trade for Ingram, the Cavaliers seem uninterested. Fedor noted that the Cavs have rejected multiple offers for their other 2022 All-Star Jarrett Allen. Despite interest in Garland, Cleveland has yet to find a deal aligning with their commitment to him.
The Cavaliers were expected to make significant changes, but the front office has remained committed to their core group. Without the ability to offer Mitchell an extension yet, a Garland trade seems unlikely unless explicitly requested.
Garland faced challenges last season, including a rare jaw fracture that sidelined him for over a month. Despite these setbacks, he still showed potential as Mitchell’s second star, averaging 21.6 points and 7.8 assists with a career-high 41 percent from deep.
With the Cavs’ ongoing coaching search, the organization hopes a change in leadership and offensive strategy can revitalize their backcourt rather than making drastic changes. The Cavaliers’ offseason will remain a focal point in the NBA, with their commitment to internal growth and potential moves around the edges.
