Donovan Mitchell Might Be Back on Miami’s Radar - And This Time, the Timing Could Be Right
Donovan Mitchell’s name hasn’t echoed through Miami Heat trade chatter in a while, but that might be about to change. While the Cleveland Cavaliers still consider him a franchise cornerstone, their uneven start to the season could open the door - even if just slightly - for the Heat to re-enter the conversation they’ve been circling for years.
Let’s be clear: Mitchell isn’t on the trade block. Not officially, not publicly. But in the NBA, situations evolve quickly - especially when expectations aren’t being met.
Cleveland’s Rocky Start Could Shift the Landscape
The Cavaliers came into this season looking like a team ready to take the next step in the Eastern Conference. Instead, they’ve stumbled out of the gate, sitting at 15-13 through their first 28 games. That’s not a disaster, but it’s also not the kind of record that screams “contender,” especially in a conference where the top tier is as unforgiving as ever.
If the Cavs continue to hover around mediocrity and find themselves battling through the Play-In Tournament instead of locking in a top-six seed, the pressure to reevaluate their roster will only grow. And when that happens, players once deemed untouchable can suddenly become available - or at the very least, open to a change of scenery.
Mitchell, who signed an extension with Cleveland in 2024, has just one guaranteed year left on his deal after this season. He holds a player option for the 2026-27 campaign, but if Cleveland’s trajectory doesn’t align with his vision of contention, the idea of him seeking a fresh start becomes more plausible.
Miami’s Longstanding Interest Still Lingers
The Heat have had their eye on Mitchell for years. He’s long been viewed as a seamless fit in Miami’s culture - tough, competitive, and capable of carrying an offense when needed.
Miami made a strong push when he was on the move from Utah in 2022, but Cleveland ultimately won out. When Mitchell inked his extension, any realistic pursuit cooled off.
But things change quickly in this league.
Miami’s front office is always monitoring the superstar landscape. They’ve built their identity around patience and timing - waiting for the right player, the right contract situation, and the right moment. And while Mitchell may not be available today, the Heat are the type of team that plays the long game.
If Cleveland’s season doesn’t stabilize, Miami should be ready to make a call - or at the very least, keep their ear to the ground.
Giannis Remains the Top Target - But Mitchell Could Be Plan B
Let’s not kid ourselves: if the Heat could pick one superstar to chase, it’s Giannis Antetokounmpo. That’s been the dream scenario for Miami, and it will likely remain the top priority heading into the trade deadline and beyond. A two-time MVP with championship pedigree doesn’t become available often, and if there’s even a sliver of a chance, the Heat will be in the mix.
But Mitchell isn’t exactly a consolation prize. He’s a four-time All-Star, a proven playoff performer, and at just 29 years old next season, still firmly in his prime. If Miami can’t land Giannis, Mitchell would be a strong alternative - one who could elevate the Heat’s ceiling without requiring a full rebuild of their current core.
What Comes Next?
Don’t expect fireworks at the trade deadline. Even if Cleveland continues to underwhelm, Mitchell being moved midseason feels unlikely. But this is the kind of situation that could simmer for months before boiling over - especially if the Cavs bow out early in the playoffs or fail to make a meaningful leap.
For Miami, the next six to twelve months could be pivotal. They’ve been patient.
They’ve stayed competitive. And they’ve kept their assets dry for the right opportunity.
If the Mitchell-Cavs partnership starts to fray, the Heat could be in position to strike.
It’s not a matter of if Miami will make a move for a star - it’s when. And if the winds shift in Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell might just be the next name on Pat Riley’s whiteboard.