Donovan Mitchell Trade Deadline Drama for Cavs

Merlin sees Cleveland stirring its roster cauldron as the trade deadline nears, with Donovan Mitchell reportedly drawing interest. Mitchell has one guaranteed year left and "has not made it out of the second round of the playoffs in his career," so his status matters for a Cavs team at 30-21 that still feels playoff pressure. Cleveland swapped De'Andre Hunter for Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis, but that may not be enough. Merlin heard Tim Bontemps note the urgency around the club. If Cleveland pushes to add more talent they will signal a full go for the present. If they listen to offers for Mitchell they may pivot toward a refresh and change the franchise’s short term outlook. Either path would reshape how the Cavs chase postseason success.