5 Trade Destinations for Darius Garland as Cavaliers Weigh Future of Injury Hit Star

Since being drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019, Darius Garland has earned two All-Star appearances and taken three trips to the playoffs. However, this past year has not been kind to Garland, who missed most of the Cavs' second-round series against the Indiana Pacers and has played just nine games thus far in the 2025-26 season.

It's no surprise, then, that Garland's name has been floated in trade rumors for quite some time. If the Cavs do decide to ship away the seven-year pro, there are a number of teams that could benefit from acquiring the services of the combo guard.

5 trade destinations for Darius Garland as Cavaliers weigh future of injury hit star

Toronto Raptors

NBA: Charlotte Hornets at Toronto Raptors - Source: Imagn

Though the Raptors have looked impressive this season, the point guard position remains a weakness for this team. Swinging a trade for Garland could help resolve this issue while allowing the Cavaliers to acquire some precious draft capital.

Sacramento Kings

NBA: Sacramento Kings at Miami Heat - Source: Imagn

The Kings are also in desperate need of a point guard, but the difference is, they're languishing at the bottom of the Western Conference. This could give the Cavs some leverage to dictate the terms of a potential Garland deal.

Golden State Warriors

NBA: Houston Rockets at Golden State Warriors - Source: Imagn

At this point, there doesn't appear to be a guard on the Warriors' roster who could steady the ship once Steph Curry decides to call it a career. Garland could provide both the scoring production and the playmaking that could stabilize Golden State for years to come.

Minnesota Timberwolves

NBA: Minnesota Timberwolves at Phoenix Suns - Source: Imagn

Mike Conley is in the twilight of his career, and sooner or later, Anthony Edwards will need serious backup in terms of ball-handling duties. A backcourt pairing of Garland and Edwards would be a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference.

Brooklyn Nets

NBA: New Orleans Pelicans at Brooklyn Nets - Source: Imagn

The Nets have perhaps the most shallow depth at the point guard position this season. At the same time, they have no established go-to guy, a role that Garland would wholeheartedly embrace if given the opportunity. In addition, the Nets' stash of draft picks over the next few years would be highly enticing to the Cavaliers.