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Pass or Pursue on 3 rumored New York Knicks star trade targets

By Jordanna Clark

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 10: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks back on defense against the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on October 10, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 10: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks back on defense against the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on October 10, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell
Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

2: Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell feels like an old Knicks friend between the 2022 trade saga that involved him wanting to be back home in New York. The 27-year-old guard is entering year two in Cleveland, hoping it won’t end with another first-round exit.

At Media Day, Mitchell confirmed he won’t sign an extension before the season starts, which makes sense because he could be eligible for more money next summer.

He reiterated his focus on winning a championship, which, shocker, is what most NBA players are focused on. The Cavaliers are projected to be another top team in the East this season, especially after signing shooters Max Strus and Georges Niang in free agency. The question is whether or not Cleveland will fizzle out in the playoffs for the second straight year.

Including 2023-24, Mitchell has three years left on his current contract. He has a $37 million player option in 2025-26, so there’s always the chance that he could be a free agent in 2025, no matter how slight it might be. If he doesn’t want to sign an extension with the Cavaliers, their front office would trade him before letting him walk for nothing.

As bizarre as it may seem, New York could get Mitchell for a cheaper price than Cleveland paid. He wouldn’t admit it publicly if so, but how could he still not be thinking about the idea of playing for the Knicks one day?

New York is right to have Mitchell on its list of top trade targets, as he’s made his mark in the playoffs and is still three years away from turning 30.

Verdict: Pursue

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