Darius Garland has made it clear that he does not want to be traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers despite recent trade rumors.
Garland told Chris Fedor of cleveland.com, “I don’t want to be traded. Those are just rumors,” dismissing reports linking him to San Antonio, New Orleans, Minnesota, and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Fedor reported that the Cavaliers received inquiries about Garland’s availability, but the team would need an extraordinary offer to consider a trade.
Garland emphasized his commitment to the Cavaliers, who plan to enhance the roster around their core players, including Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.
During a recent practice, Garland and new head coach Kenny Atkinson discussed offensive strategies for the upcoming season, highlighting the point guard’s crucial role in the team’s success.
Garland expressed optimism about the team’s plans, saying, “A lot of spacing and a lot of room for me and Don and all of the other guys to be able to thrive.”
The 24-year-old point guard is entering the second year of his five-year, $197 million contract with the Cavaliers.
This past season, Garland averaged 18 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 6.5 assists in 33.3 minutes per game.
