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The speculation surrounding Donovan Mitchell's future has intensified, with reports suggesting that the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are prepared to make trade offers for the Cleveland Cavaliers star. Brian Windhorst, speaking on ESPN's Get Up, revealed that multiple teams have their trade packages ready for Mitchell, indicating significant interest in the five-time All-Star.
"I think the most interesting thing that could happen here is that Donovan, again, Donovan never indicated that he ever wanted to be traded from Utah, but the Jazz knew he was probably unlikely to stay. I don't think that Donovan will ever say, I don't want to be in Cleveland.
"So the question is, for an organization and an ownership who have lost players like LeBron, if Donovan just simply says, I love it here, and I'm not going to extend, what do they say no way we got to take action and that is a huge potential question coming for June and July.
"I'm trying to walk the line because I don't want anybody to freak out in my hometown of Cleveland, but there are a number of teams that have their offers ready. The Lakers, they're ready. Of course. Absolutely. Certainly across the river there in Brooklyn."
.@WindhorstESPN says "a number of teams have their offers ready" for Donovan Mitchell
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 15, 2024
Could you see him leaving the Cavs? pic.twitter.com/ZvPsTNOgwT
Windhorst's remarks underscore the strategic maneuvering taking place behind the scenes in the NBA. While Mitchell has not expressed a desire to leave Cleveland, there's a growing sense that he may not extend his contract with the Cavaliers. This uncertainty has prompted teams like the Lakers and Nets to prepare trade offers, anticipating a potential opportunity to acquire a player of Mitchell's caliber.
For the Lakers, adding Mitchell to their roster would address their need for a third star to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Mitchell's scoring prowess and ability to create his own shot would provide a significant boost to a team looking to bounce back from a disappointing postseason performance.
Mitchell has been a consistent performer throughout his career, averaging at least 25.9 points per game in each of the past four seasons. His ability to score at a high rate, coupled with his playmaking skills, makes him an attractive target for the Lakers. This season he averaged 26.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while shooting 46.2% from the field and 36.8% from 3-point range.
Similarly, the Nets find themselves in need of a star player after surrendering their top draft pick to the Houston Rockets as part of the James Harden trade. Mitchell could potentially fill that void, offering scoring prowess and playmaking ability to a team looking to rebuild after missing the playoffs.
While Mitchell's contract situation remains uncertain, with one more year left on his current deal and a player option for the following season, teams like the Lakers and Nets are preparing to make their move.
The pursuit of Mitchell underscores the competitive landscape of the NBA offseason, where teams are vying to secure the talent necessary to compete for championships. As trade offers are readied and negotiations loom, the league braces for what could be a transformative offseason marked by blockbuster deals and strategic moves.
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