Darius Garland Trade Buzz: Why the Cavaliers Might Be Ready to Move On-and Who Could Come Calling
The Cleveland Cavaliers are facing a crossroads. After a red-hot start to last season that had them sitting atop the league at 23-4, this year’s squad has stumbled out of the gate.
Through 27 games, they’re just 15-12-good for seventh in the Eastern Conference, but far from the contender they hoped to be. And with limited flexibility under the NBA’s second tax apron, the front office has some tough decisions to make.
One of those decisions? Whether it’s time to move on from Darius Garland.
Garland’s Dip in Production Raises Questions
Let’s start with the numbers. Garland is averaging 15.5 points and 6.5 assists per game-his lowest scoring output since his rookie season.
But it’s the shooting that really jumps out. He’s hitting just 36.2% from the field and 28.2% from deep, both career lows.
For a player who’s been known for his smooth jumper and offensive creativity, that kind of drop-off is hard to ignore.
It’s not just about the stats, though. It’s about fit.
With Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley emerging as the franchise’s cornerstones, Garland’s role in Cleveland’s long-term vision is becoming less clear. His contract-$39.4 million this season, locked in through 2028-makes him a valuable trade chip.
And at just 25 years old, he’s still young enough to be a foundational piece elsewhere.
So, if the Cavaliers decide to shake things up, who might be in the mix? Let’s break down three potential trade scenarios that could send Garland to a new home-and help the Cavs retool around their stars.
Trade Scenario #3: Garland to the Toronto Raptors
Raptors receive:
- Darius Garland
Cavaliers receive:
- Immanuel Quickley
- Ochai Agbaji
- 2026 first-round pick
- 2027 second-round pick
The Raptors have been a bit of a rollercoaster this season. After jumping out to a 14-5 start, they’ve stumbled to a 2-6 record over their last eight games.
The offense has sputtered during that stretch, ranking 28th league-wide. That’s where Garland could come in.
Even with his struggles this year, Garland has the ability to elevate an offense. His playmaking and shot creation would give Toronto a much-needed jolt at the point of attack. If he can return to his All-Star form, this could be a high-upside move for the Raptors.
For Cleveland, the return is intriguing. Immanuel Quickley brings a different dynamic at point guard-more of a downhill attacker who could mesh better with Mitchell’s off-ball game. Ochai Agbaji adds defensive versatility on the wing, and the draft picks give the Cavs some long-term flexibility.
Trade Scenario #2: Garland to the Milwaukee Bucks
Bucks receive:
- Darius Garland
Cavaliers receive:
- Kyle Kuzma
- Bobby Portis
- Ryan Rollins
- 2031 first-round pick
- 2032 second-round pick
Milwaukee’s offense has been underwhelming, ranking 22nd in points per game and 24th in offensive efficiency. That’s not what you’d expect from a team with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Adding Garland could be the spark they need.
Picture Garland running pick-and-roll with Giannis-that’s a nightmare for opposing defenses. Garland’s ability to stretch the floor and make quick reads could unlock a new level for the Bucks’ offense.
On the flip side, Cleveland would get a pair of proven veterans in Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis. Both can contribute immediately and bring toughness and experience to a young roster. Ryan Rollins is a developmental piece, and the future picks-especially the 2031 first-rounder-could prove valuable as Milwaukee’s roster ages.
Trade Scenario #1: Garland to the Minnesota Timberwolves
Timberwolves receive:
- Darius Garland
Cavaliers receive:
- Julius Randle
- Rob Dillingham
- 2032 first-round pick
Nets receive:
- Bones Hyland
- 2026 first-round pick (Spurs swap from Wolves)
Minnesota has been actively searching for a point guard, with names like James Harden and Ja Morant floated in rumors. But Garland might be the most realistic-and best-fit.
He’d slot in as a primary ballhandler alongside Anthony Edwards, giving the Timberwolves a dynamic backcourt with scoring and playmaking punch. And with Rudy Gobert anchoring the defense, Garland wouldn’t be asked to carry too much on that end.
This three-team deal also gives Cleveland a fresh look. Julius Randle brings size and scoring to the frontcourt, and his contract is more manageable than Garland’s.
Rob Dillingham is a high-upside guard who hasn’t had much of a chance to shine in Minnesota, but could develop into a key piece in Cleveland. The future first-rounder adds another asset to the war chest.
For Brooklyn, taking on Bones Hyland’s minimum deal and facilitating the pick swap is a low-risk move that could pay off down the line.
The Bottom Line
The Cavaliers aren’t in panic mode just yet, but they’re clearly not where they expected to be. With limited cap flexibility and a roster that doesn’t quite fit together, a bold move may be necessary. Trading Darius Garland-while not an easy decision-could be the kind of shake-up that helps this team reset around Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley.
Garland’s still young, still talented, and still under contract for several years. That makes him one of the most intriguing trade chips in the league. Whether it’s Toronto, Milwaukee, Minnesota, or another suitor, don’t be surprised if we see his name headlining trade talks as the season rolls on.