According to a May story from The Athletic, Rich Paul, the agent of Darius Garland, was anticipated to speak with the Cavaliers about finding his client a new home if Donovan Mitchell signed a contract extension this offseason. Nevertheless, Garland told Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com (subscription link) that he is not interested in starting that debate, even after Mitchell signed his agreement.
Although sources tell Fedor that Paul and Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman have talked this summer, the team has made it apparent that it has no interest in trading the former All-Star, and there has been no indication from Garland’s camp that it is looking for a change of scenery.
Fedor claims that Garland was overjoyed for Mitchell to earn a lucrative new contract with Cleveland and that the organization had appointed Kenny Atkinson as head coach.
Garland has been in Las Vegas working out on the court and meeting with Atkinson; Fedor writes that over a meal on Friday, the two men talked about offensive sets and plans as well as the 24-year-old’s role.
“It sounds excellent,” Garland said. “Ample space and separation to allow Don, myself, and the other guys to grow and succeed.”
Atkinson, who has been gushing about Garland ever since he was hired in Cleveland, is just as excited about his point guard.
Of the top guards for the Cavaliers, Atkinson remarked, “I can’t wait to work with them.” That’s the quarterback, and I was a point guard. In this league, being in charge is a major responsibility, and those guys are running the show. I identify with them. Great admirer of Darius. Been a fan for ever. Inadequate. Underappreciated performer. I believe he doesn’t receive enough recognition for the vibe. Then, as everyone knows, Donovan is the genuine deal. The exceptional possess a distinct work ethic. He’s got a somewhat different wiring.
