Report: Cavs All-Star is available under the ‘right circumstances’

The Cavs are weighing their options.

Get ready for a summer full of these quotes.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly open to trading Darius Garland if the right proposal is presented. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst says the Cavs are keeping an open mind this summer.

“I think there’s some belief that Darius Garland might be available under the right circumstances,” said Windhorst. “I think the Cavs are listening and open-minded.”

This isn’t a revelation. Koby Altman suggested as much in his end-of-season presser. The Cavs will treat this summer as another opportunity to improve the roster. But one that comes with strict financial implications due to the second apron. Upgrading this team isn’t as simple as swapping Garland for another player.

The Cavs are facing an interesting dilemma. For some, breaking up this group is the only path forward. Others are more willing to run it back, pointing towards the immense regular season success and subsequent injuries as explanations for their shortcomings in the playoffs. All else aside, another second-round exit has put the Cavs in this bind.

It’s unlikely the Cavs can trade Garland without opening another hole on the roster. Cleveland is unable to aggregate contracts in a trade so long as they remain in the second apron. That means you’re either trading Garland for two lesser players — or swapping him for another large contract. Garland’s playmaking and efficient three-point shooting make him invaluable to the Cavs' offense. There aren’t many available trade prospects who can check both of those boxes.

Nonetheless, Cleveland will be listening to offers. It would be a mistake not to turn over every rock this summer as the Cavs look to capitalize on their championship window.