The Los Angeles Lakers, once again in business mode, are reportedly quite optimistic about their chances of acquiring Donovan Mitchell this summer.
The Lakers are reportedly optimistic about their chances of acquiring Donovan Mitchell this summer, per @sportsreiter pic.twitter.com/VTvjWCuV1K
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 7, 2024
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, discussions about trading for a star like Mitchell are already taking place internally in the Lakers’ camp.
Los Angeles could have up to three first-rounders available, depending on if the New Orleans Pelicans opt to swap picks with them as part of the Anthony Davis trade deal.
This trade acquisition from a few years ago could be key to the most significant trade of this summer.
The Los Angeles Lakers have always been strategic about keeping their options open. Whether James chooses to stay with the team or leave this summer, acquiring a player like Mitchell could be a strong move.
Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young is another name being considered for the Lakers’ offseason.
Despite Donovan Mitchell’s happiness with the Cavaliers being questioned repeatedly, Mitchell has remained with the Cavaliers, who have consistently dismissed any talks about trading him away.
However, things may potentially shift in the summer if Mitchell refuses to sign an extension with the Cavaliers, forcing them to course-correct their championship aspirations.
The Lakers are contemplating offering first-round picks for 2029, 2031, and either 2024 or 2025 to the Cavs, along with matching salary players like D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura.
These offers may not seem attractive to the Cavs right now, but come summer, if Mitchell asks out, this could be considered a viable return.
Mitchell’s performance has been outstanding, with him achieving star numbers. Averaging 27.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game this season on 46% shooting, Mitchell is a highly-coveted player who the Lakers aim to bring into their line-up.
The Lakers’ geographical and organizational allure gives the team an edge in star hunting. Reports by ESPN suggest that the Lakers are considering such a trade as a “possibility,” indicating that the Lakers aim to either maintain James’ satisfaction with the organization or pivot to a different strategy.
The Cavs, however, are not keen on trading Donovan Mitchell this season. Given their current performance, even without Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, their trajectory seems promising.
Their position could change after another poor playoff run, but for now, the Cavs are in a good place to keep Mitchell this season and beyond.
