3 way-too-early trade deadline targets if Spurs stumble out of the gate

3) Darius Garland

For a while, it seemed as though the Cleveland Cavaliers wouldn't be able to retain their young core, with all the trade rumors swirling. To their credit, they managed to extend Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen while still retaining Darius Garland. However, if the Cavaliers get off to a poor start or lose ground in a highly competitive Eastern Conference, those trade rumors could resurface. Garland seems like he would be the most obvious trade candidate due to his potential redundancy with Mitchell.

If that were the case, then the Spurs should register interest in him since they have only temporarily resolved their issues at point guard. Garland is just 24 years old and under contract for the next three seasons after next year. Better still, he is on an affordable deal that would make trading for him easier ahead of the trade deadline without San Antonio having to gut their roster.

The Cavs would be able to see how likely the Spurs' picks are to convey, and that may increase the likelihood that a trade between the two teams happens should he become available. Ultimately, Garland fits the team's timeline perfectly, and his scoring, shooting, and playmaking check all the boxes at point guard.