Cleveland Cavs All-Star Donovan Mitchell agreed to a three-year,$150.3 million extension, securing his future with the Cavs as they pursue their second championship in over eight years. In his recovery from a left calf injury, Mitchell is eager to begin the regular season. Proclaiming the 2024-25 Cavs are championship contenders when asked about the Cavs’ new coach, Kenny Atkinson, suggesting an increased offensive role for Evan Mobley, in a recent interview with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, per NBA on ESPN’s X, formerly known as Twitter, post.
“I think it helps. I think we were 23rd or 24th in pace last year, and Kenny [Atkinson] has spoken about it with myself,” Mitchell said. “When he got the job, the four of us spoke about ways to find it, and a lot of it is pace. Playing with pace, get out, and push. I think we’re a championship contender.”
With everything the five-time All-Star has accomplished throughout his seven-year NBA career, Mitchell hopes to leave behind a storied legacy in Cleveland. He knows the best way to reach that goal is to capture a championship soon.
“At the end of the day, all that stuff is great, but whether it’s fair or not, you’re judged on rings, you’re judged on championships,” Mitchell added. “That’s what you play this game for. You play to be the best.”
Donovan Mitchell connects with Cavs new coach Kenny Atkinson
David Richard-Imagn Images
With championship aspirations, Cavs All-Star Donovan Mitchell had significant conversations with his new head coach, Kenny Atkinson. These conversations undoubtedly extended beyond getting Evan Mobley extended touches on offense, as Mitchell most likely talked about winning his first NBA championship. Atkinson is a veteran head coach and former assistant to Steve Kerr and the 2022 champion Golden State Warriors.
Meanwhile, Mitchell has embraced Cleveland culture and believes in the direction the Cavs organization is heading.
“I think people don’t understand. When you sign that contract, yes, you’re signing to be with the organization, my teammates, who I love; we’re a family. But, also, this is a life decision,” Mitchell said. “Cleveland is somewhere I genuinely like to be. I’m watching the Browns. I’m watching the Guardians. I knew for a while. It was just a no-brainer.”
Mobley secured a five-year, $224 million extension over the summer as Cleveland committed long-term to not one but a few members of its starting lineup, including starting center Jarrett Allen, who inked a three-year, $91 million extension during the offseason. After falling to the Chicago Bulls 116-112 in their preseason opener, the Cavs will host the Pacers on Thursday.
