The Cleveland Cavaliers are heading into what promises to be a busy and rumor-filled offseason, with speculation swirling around how they might reshape their roster in hopes of a deeper playoff run after a disappointing finish this past postseason.
One of the primary names emerging in early trade chatter is Darius Garland. Many analysts and fans have floated hypothetical deals involving the talented guard, suggesting that Cleveland might need to reconsider its backcourt alignment heading into the 2025-26 season.
A recent trade idea from Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey links Garland to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Jalen Suggs, Jett Howard, and a top-five protected first-round pick in 2027:
Magic receive: Darius Garland
Cavaliers receive: Jalen Suggs, Jett Howard, 2027 top-five protected first-round pick
Bailey explained the thinking behind the move, noting Cleveland’s 64-win regular season was overshadowed by a second-round playoff exit at the hands of the Indiana Pacers. Despite their impressive record, lingering questions remain—most notably whether the undersized duo of Donovan Mitchell and Garland can hold up defensively in the postseason, and whether there’s too much redundancy in the Mobley-Allen frontcourt.
Bailey sees this proposal as one that might address Cleveland’s defensive shortcomings. Swapping Garland for Suggs would give the Cavs a guard more focused on defense, potentially making them more playoff-ready—even if it means sacrificing some offensive efficiency.
From Orlando’s perspective, Bailey argues the team is positioned to pursue a top-tier point guard, and Garland would be a natural target if he becomes available.
The ultimate question for Cleveland is whether they value Garland highly enough to pass on this package, or if a deal centered around Suggs, Howard, and a future pick would be compelling enough to consider. Garland is coming off one of his best seasons—averaging 20.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 1.2 steals while shooting an efficient 47.2% from the floor and 40.1% from deep.
Suggs, while offering a defensive upgrade, may not match Garland’s offensive output, and the Cavs could seek more in return to move one of their top assets. Still, with how unpredictable NBA offseasons can be, it wouldn’t be shocking if Cleveland explored a move like this.
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