NBA insider Evan Dammarell, from Right Down Euclid, reports that the New Orleans Pelicans have shown interest in trading for Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland and center Jarrett Allen.
There’s a possibility that the Cavaliers might trade Garland and/or Allen during the upcoming offseason. Cleveland is eyeing Brandon Ingram from New Orleans as a potential acquisition, according to a source from Hoops Wire.
Garland had an impressive season, averaging 18.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 6.5 assists for the Cavaliers, with solid shooting percentages. He’s set to earn $36.7 million next season. Allen, with two years and $40 million remaining on his contract, put up notable stats as well, averaging 16.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and displaying strong shooting percentages.
NBA insider Marc Stein suggests there’s a belief that Garland may seek a trade if Donovan Mitchell extends his contract with the Cavaliers. Meanwhile, Allen has garnered interest from multiple teams across the league.
In recent postseason action, the Cavaliers won against the Orlando Magic in the first round but lost to the Boston Celtics in the second round, with Allen sidelined due to a rib injury. Reports from NBA insiders at The Athletic indicate that some Cavaliers were frustrated with Allen’s decision to decline an injection to manage his rib pain and play.
Before making any roster changes, the Cavaliers will appoint a new head coach. Mitchell’s contract extension with Cleveland is anticipated, although nothing is certain until the deal is finalized.
During their coaching search, the Cavaliers have been linked to several candidates, including Johnnie Bryant, Terry Stotts, and others. An NBA executive suggests that hiring Bryant, who shares a close relationship with Mitchell from their time together with the Utah Jazz, could help maintain team chemistry.
