The NBA offseason is intensifying with major trades and strategic roster reshuffling, placing Cleveland Cavaliers’ All-Star guard Darius Garland at the center of trade rumors. Following Cleveland’s acquisition of Lonzo Ball from Chicago, questions about Garland’s future have surged, as teams seek dynamic playmakers to enhance their lineups.
With Garland recovering from toe surgery, the Cavaliers face a critical decision: continue building around their young star or entertain trade offers from teams needing a lead guard. Below are four NBA teams emerging as likely top destinations for Darius Garland, each offering unique fits and benefits.
Miami Heat’s Search for Offensive Creativity
The Miami Heat represent a compelling option due to their clear requirement for a stronger offensive initiator. Last season, Miami ranked 21st in offensive rating, struggling to consistently generate half-court offense. Garland’s expertise as a playmaker, averaging 6.7 assists per game and ranking 12th in the league, directly addresses this shortfall.
Garland’s ability to efficiently run pick-and-rolls and create scoring opportunities would significantly ease offensive pressure on Tyler Herro. Miami’s respectable 36.7% 3-point shooting last season relied heavily on Herro and Jimmy Butler III—who has now moved to Golden State—highlighting a need for additional creators. Garland’s career 38.8% three-point shooting on over six attempts per game would fit well within their system, providing floor spacing and scoring versatility.
At 20.6 points per game, Garland offers scoring both on and off the ball, complementing Herro and Bam Adebayo’s styles. His proven ability to contend with strong defenses would elevate Miami’s offensive ceiling and maintain their status as playoff contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Minnesota Timberwolves’ Push for Championship Readiness
The Minnesota Timberwolves, having made back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances, are edging closer to true title contention with Anthony Edwards leading the charge. However, their reliance on Edwards in isolation made their offense predictable and easier to defend in the playoffs.
Garland, aged 25, would align better with Minnesota’s timeline than veteran Mike Conley, whose career is winding down at 37. Garland brings All-Star level scoring and playmaking that could immediately boost the Timberwolves’ offensive dynamics next to Edwards. Rookie Rob Dillingham could be included in a trade package, offering upside to Cleveland, but Garland’s readiness to contribute now makes him the centerpiece of interest.
Garland’s presence would also support Julius Randle, who recently committed to Minnesota with a three-year, $100 million extension. Garland’s distribution skills could free up both Randle and Edwards to operate with greater efficiency, adding a reliable secondary scorer and reducing defensive focus on Edwards.
“Nobody’s gonna work harder than me this summer. I’ll try to make it happen again for Mike.” —Ant, Minnesota Timberwolves All-Star
This addition could be pivotal for a Timberwolves squad serious about pushing deeper into championship contention.
Phoenix Suns’ Need for a Steady Floor General
The Phoenix Suns endured a disappointing 2024 season, marked by a lack of chemistry among their star trio—Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. After trading Durant, they are clearly in a retooling phase, particularly at the point guard position.
With Tyus Jones departing for Orlando in free agency, Phoenix lacks a dependable lead guard. Garland’s skill set—driving off the dribble, managing pick-and-rolls, and creating plays—could stabilize the offense and ease Booker’s burden as the primary playmaker, a role that does not suit Booker’s strengths.
Booker remains the team’s top scorer, averaging 25.6 points per game, supported by Jalen Green’s acquisition. However, with Green potentially tradeable, Garland’s arrival would inject the Suns with the kind of seasoned floor general they have missed since Chris Paul’s departure, allowing Booker and Beal to focus more on scoring.
Sacramento Kings’ Quest for a Dynamic Offensive Catalyst
The Sacramento Kings’ fast-paced offensive approach demands a guard capable of intelligent playmaking and quick decision-making—qualities Garland possesses in abundance. His efficient shooting and scoring ability fit well with the Kings’ style, complementing Domantas Sabonis and their read-and-react offense.
Ranked in the 83rd percentile in points per shot attempt and effective field-goal percentage, Garland thrives in motion-heavy systems and can keep pace with Sacramento’s uptempo game. The departure of De’Aaron Fox has left a significant gap in the Kings’ creation, which Garland could fill effectively, although integrating him with ball-dominant guards like Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Malik Monk would require roster adjustments.
If Garland returns to his pre-injury form, he would bring a much-needed half-court creator with playoff potential, strengthening the Kings’ competitiveness in the Western Conference.
What Staying with the Cleveland Cavaliers Could Mean
Despite growing trade speculation, Cleveland could opt to retain Garland, preserving a backcourt duo with Donovan Mitchell regarded as one of the NBA’s most formidable. Last season, the Cavaliers posted the league’s best offensive rating, bolstered by Garland’s scoring and passing, as well as his ability to stretch defenses alongside Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
Garland’s impact extends beyond scoring; even without leading offensively, his efficiency and control steer Cleveland’s offense. Before his injury, Garland averaged 24 points and 7 assists in the first two playoff games against Miami, shooting over 50% from the field and 41% from three.
He also led the NBA in clutch shooting, with a field-goal percentage of 53.4% and 45.0% from beyond the arc—an uncommon level of poise crucial in tight moments. At 25, Garland stands at the threshold of his prime years, and unless Cleveland receives an overwhelming offer, keeping him would solidify their foundation for sustained success.