The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly eyeing a potential move for Cleveland Cavaliers standout guard Donovan Mitchell in the upcoming offseason. This speculation is influencing the Lakers’ decision-making process leading up to the trade deadline this season.
Mitchell, who will enter the final guaranteed year of his contract with the Cavs in the 2024-25 season, holds a player option for the following campaign. Rumors about Mitchell’s potential departure from Cleveland have been circulating for a while, with some NBA insiders suggesting it’s an open secret.
Despite the Cavaliers’ strong performance in the Eastern Conference this season, currently sitting at the No. 2, both the Lakers and the New York Knicks are reportedly eyeing Mitchell for a potential offseason acquisition.
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
If Mitchell chooses not to re-sign with Cleveland, it could force the franchise into considering a trade rather than risking losing him for nothing in free agency the following year. For the Lakers, holding onto their valuable asset, the 2029 first-round pick, might be crucial in facilitating a deal for Mitchell in the offseason, potentially affecting their ability to make significant moves this season to bolster their title contention.
While the specifics of a potential trade package remain unclear, the Lakers could explore offering players like Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, who are on reasonable contracts and have youth on their side.
Mitchell, an All-NBA selection last season and a two-time All-Star with the Cavaliers, has been a significant asset for the team since his acquisition from the Utah Jazz last season. His impressive performance this season, averaging 28.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game, solidifies his status as one of the premier guards in the league.
