Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cavs fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Cleveland Cavaliers extended Donovan Mitchell to a massive $270 million deal. We asked you, the fans, for a reaction.
You voted overwhelmingly in favor of Mitchell’s extension.
More than two-thirds of Cavs fans agreed that signing Mitchell to a long-term extension was the correct
move. Only 29% disagreed with the decision. That means the loudest detractors you’ve seen online are simply part of the vocal minority. Most Cavs fans are still on board with Spida.
In fairness, it’s understandable why some fans have become disgruntled. Getting swept by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, all while Mitchell struggles to establish himself, was frustrating to watch. Even more frustrating was Jalen Brunson getting the better of him once again — while doing it on a cheaper deal.
I get it.
But the simple truth remains: Mitchell is too valuable to insult with a low-ball offer. This franchise hasn’t seen many players better than him. They certainly haven’t had a superstar embrace them like this since LeBron James. That’s the type of relationship you don’t want to sour by being cheap.
For a reminder, here are the details of Mitchell’s deal.
- 2027-28: $60.9 million
- 2028-29: 65.8 million
- 2029-30: $70.6 million
- 2030-31 (player option): $75.5 million
I think every fan would vote for paying Mitchell less if it meant opening the door for more improvements to the roster. But that wasn’t what we asked. We wanted to know if you agreed with the Mitchell extension. And, given everything we know, the answer was a resounding yes for a reason.
FanDuel currently has the Cavs over/under for wins set at 47.5. They’ve won more than that in each of Mitchell’s four seasons in Cleveland.
Mitchell has led the Cavs to multiple 50-win seasons. He’s been one of their most consistent playoff performers outside of his recent struggles, which, in the end, led to their deepest playoff run in years. There are plenty of things to complain about or nitpick, but losing Mitchell was a non-starter for Cleveland.
