Cleveland Cavaliers shake NBA with massive Kevin Durant trade request for Darius Garland
Cleveland Cavaliers shake NBA with massive Kevin Durant trade request for Darius Garland (Image Source: Getty Images)
The Cleveland Cavaliers may not be making loud moves, but behind the scenes, they're playing hardball. With NBA Draft buzz heating up, a surprising report has emerged this time involving the Phoenix Suns and a bold trade idea centered around Darius Garland.
While most teams are strategizing for the future, Cleveland has already drawn a line in the sand, and their asking price? Kevin Durant - and then some.
Cavaliers set bold ask -
Kevin
Durant plus assets
On June 25, ESPN insider Brian Windhorst revealed that the Suns were the ones who initiated conversation, showing interest in Darius Garland. He explained that 'it was not the Cavs who wanted to trade Garland'. Instead, Cleveland reportedly told Phoenix they would only consider a deal if Kevin Durant and additional assets were included.
The Cavaliers also still hold the rights to their own 2029 first-round pick, which the Phoenix Suns currently own, making the offer even more valuable. According to Windhorst, 'the Phoenix Suns didn't hang up the phone' on the proposal.
This back-and-forth shows how much the Cleveland Cavaliers value Darius Garland. They see him as more important than even big names and draft picks offered in trade talks involving Kevin Durant.
Darius Garland trade talk tests Cavaliers' strategy
Darius Garland, a two-time All-Star, had a standout 2024-25 season but suffered a left big-toe surgery after Cleveland's playoff run. That injury sparked rumors that he might be available. Still, Windhorst noted the Cavs aren't in 'shopping mode,' they are open to calls, but won't part with Garland easily.
Strategically, the Cavaliers are under salary pressure due to the NBA's second apron rules. Reports suggest they have explored offloading other contracts, like Isaac Okoro's, to create trade flexibility.
While Cleveland did make offers for Kevin Durant, adding Garland into the mix was a dramatic move.
With Kevin Durant now headed to Houston in a big trade that brought Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and a 2025 lottery pick to the Phoenix Suns, the Cleveland Cavaliers seem set on keeping Darius Garland. Instead of moving him, they're looking to build around their core stars Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland.
The whole situation shows just how serious Cleveland is about upgrading their roster and how much they believe Garland is a key part of their future.
Also Read:
Dylan Harper drops 8-word reaction as Times Square debut fuels NBA draft buzz and San Antonio Spurs rumors
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