The Cleveland Cavaliers are swinging big ahead of the 2026 NBA trade deadline-and if the latest reports hold weight, they’re not just looking to tweak the roster. They’re eyeing a seismic shift.
According to multiple sources, Cleveland has engaged in trade talks with the Milwaukee Bucks about two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and with the Dallas Mavericks regarding All-Star big man Anthony Davis. Yes, you read that right-Giannis and AD are both on the Cavaliers’ radar as the team looks to reshape its core and make a serious push in the East.
Let’s start with the most headline-grabbing name: Giannis. The Bucks are reportedly taking calls on the future Hall of Famer, and while he doesn’t have a no-trade clause, Antetokounmpo has made it known he’s open to a fresh start. He’s currently sidelined with a right calf injury and expected to miss four to six weeks, but his numbers this season-28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists-remind us that even in limited action (30 games), he’s still one of the most dominant forces in the league.
Then there’s Davis. The Chicago native is putting up a solid 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and nearly two blocks per game for Dallas, though he’s only played in 20 games due to a left hand ligament injury. He’s not expected back until late February, but the Cavaliers seem willing to bet on his upside-especially if it means pairing him with Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley in a retooled frontcourt.
Of course, making a run at either star would require significant cap maneuvering. Both Giannis and Davis are making $54.1 million this season, so matching salaries is a must.
That’s where Jarrett Allen comes in. The Cavs are actively shopping the 25-year-old center, who’s earning $20 million this season.
Allen has been a key piece of Cleveland’s defense and interior presence, but he may be the odd man out if the front office is serious about landing a superstar.
And that’s not the only major move on the table. Cleveland is also reportedly in talks to send Darius Garland to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for James Harden.
That’s a potential shake-up of epic proportions. Garland, Allen, Mitchell, and Mobley-the so-called “Core 4” that’s been together since 2022-may have already played their last games as a unit.
The Cavaliers haven’t made it past the second round of the playoffs since 2018, and despite finishing with the best record in the East last season, they were bounced by the Pacers in the conference semifinals in just five games. Sitting in fifth place in the East right now, Cleveland’s front office appears to be signaling that simply being good isn’t good enough anymore.
This is a team looking to make a leap-from playoff hopeful to legitimate title contender. And with the trade deadline looming at 3 p.m. ET on February 5, the clock is ticking.
Whether it’s Giannis, Davis, Harden, or some combination, the Cavaliers are clearly done waiting for internal development to take them over the top. They’re ready to gamble big. The only question now is: how far are they willing to go?