The Cleveland Cavaliers had a rough time in the 2025 postseason, which could lead to some massive changes. This could involve star point guard Darius Garland, whom team president Koby Altman is open to trading.
During the 2024-25 regular season, the Cleveland Cavaliers were impressive. They were the number-one seed in the Eastern Conference with a 64-18 record. They had a 16-game winning streak in February and March. Even Minnesota Timberwolves‘ Chris Finch admitted the Cavs were a terrifying team.
Their success was mostly due to their stacked roster, headlined by Donovan Mitchell. He was supported by Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, and Darius Garland. Unfortunately, they fell apart in the 2025 Playoffs due to injuries, losing to the Indiana Pacers.
Now, exiting the postseason was a big blow to the Cavaliers’ “perfect” season. Most people expected them to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals, but injuries impacted their play. This has led them to consider options, including a potential Garland trade.
Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty ImagesBrian Windhorst alludes to the Cavs possibly trading Garland
The Cavaliers want to compete against the best teams in the league. To do that, they must have the most optimal roster possible. Since Mitchell is the team’s superstar, that might make Garland available in the trade market. This is a player breakup that former NBA champion Vernon Maxwell supports, as he detailed in May.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has heard that the Cavaliers are open to trading Garland. That is surprising, as he has been one of the franchise’s best players in recent years. He has proven himself to be one of the league’s better point guards, as seen in his All-Star nod.
“The interesting thing about the Cavs is that over a year ago, there was some belief that Garland may want to get traded. That was definitely out there that if Donovan didn’t extend his contract,” Windhorst said on ESPN Cleveland.
“Koby was on the record saying, ‘We’re not trading Darius Garland.’ A year later, I think there’s some belief that Darius Garland might be available under the right circumstances. I don’t think Darius Garland does not want to go anywhere.”
“He’s really happy how things have developed in Cleveland. He really likes the role he has. I think the Cavs are listening and open-minded without actively thinking about changing their roster.”
The reasoning behind a potential Garland trade
Unfortunately, Garland is good enough to be a valuable trade piece, but not enough to compete against other elite guards. Jalen Brunson, Cade Cunningham, and Tyrese Haliburton are the top point guards in the East. Garland is below them, competing against other star guards like Trae Young and LaMelo Ball.
Top 5 Point Guards in Eastern Conference
1. Tyrese Haliburton
2. Cade Cunningham
3. Jalen Brunson
4. Darius Garland
5. Trae Young
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That still means he is a fantastic player, especially for the Cavs. The franchise sees Garland as a long-term piece. However, his value might entice other teams to give up their star in return for Garland. President of basketball operations Koby Altman will consider offers and confirm them if he finds the right deal.
It should be a trade package that could take the Cavs over the hump. They have been excellent in recent years, but a Garland trade should lead to a good co-star for Mitchell and Mobley. The Cavaliers are nearly there; they need more pieces to help them contend for a championship.