Bill Simmons has stirred the NBA rumor mill by proposing an unconventional trade involving Darius Garland that could dramatically alter the Cleveland Cavaliers’ trajectory. Rather than pursuing traditional assets, Simmons suggests Cleveland should target a bold swap that includes veteran players and draft capital from an Eastern Conference rival. The idea is to leverage Garland’s rising star power to acquire a package that boosts both immediate competitiveness and long-term flexibility.

This proposed trade stands out mainly because it blends youth and experience in a non-linear fashion. Simmons envisions the Cavaliers sending Garland alongside a first-round pick in exchange for a reliable wing scorer, a defensive-minded big man, and future draft considerations. Such a move not only addresses Cleveland’s roster gaps but also reshapes the team’s style of play by balancing scoring distribution and defensive intensity.

  • Outgoing: Darius Garland, 2025 1st-round pick
  • Incoming: Veteran wing scorer, defensive big man, future 2nd-round pick
Player Position Strength
Darius Garland PG Scoring & Playmaking
Veteran Wing SG/SF 3&D Specialist
Defensive Big C/PF Rim Protection