Cavaliers Darius Garland Trade Odds See Shock Conference Rival Emerge as Favorites
Darius Garland has another three years left on his $197 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He’s formed a strong partnership with Donovan Mitchell as part of Kenny Atkinson’s back court.
However, Garland’s long-term future with the Cavaliers continues to be a point of discussion. His limited defense has long been a concern for Cavaliers fans, especially in terms of postseason success.
Should Cleveland decide to explore Garland’s trade market, the Orlando Magic are seen as potential suitors. Orlando is in dire need of a long-term answer at the point guard position. They also have the elite defenders needed to hide Garland at the point of attack.
According to Bovada sportsbook, the Magic are +170 to acquire Garland, should he become available for trade. Orlando has all the necessary trade chips to create a compelling package for Garland, regardless of what the Cavaliers are looking for.
Right now, Garland isn’t viewed as a potential trade chip for Cleveland. However, the offseason is still young, and things could change. If they do, Bovada’s odds say Orlando could face competition from the Boston Celtics (+275), Minnesota Timberwolves (+450) and Los Angeles Lakers (+500).
Garland Needs to Get Stronger
During a recent news conference, Cleveland’s President of Basketball Operations, Koby Altman, shared his thoughts on how Garland can improve heading into next season.
“He (Garland) needs to get stronger so he can compete at the highest level,” Altman said. “It’s the same thing that [happened] with Stephen Curry. … Now, Steph is all-world. I’m not making that comparison. But Steph got stronger … over his years. He’s a different physical specimen than he was when he first started playing.”
