The ruffle going that was ongoing in the NBA community for Cleveland Cavaliers‘ star Donovan Mitchell has finally come to an end. Interestingly, from the start, the Cavs were quite “optimistic” about Mitchell, as per the Athletic insider Shams Charania. Well, it seems that it was pure trust from the team owner, Dan Gilbert, that paid off well. This extension isn’t just another contract; it’s a strategic move with significant implications for Mitchell’s future and the dynamics of NBA contracts.

The All-Star guard has signed a three-year max extension with the Cavs for a $150.3 contract. And he announced it on X with quite a lot of style! He shared a short clip from the movie, The Wolf of Wall Street to display his excitement.

Notably, as per ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the contract includes a player option for Spida for the 2027-28 season. The decision to opt for a shorter, three-year deal, over a possible four-year, $202 million contract speaks volumes about Mitchell’s strategic foresight regarding his career and financial future.

Mitchell’s choice of a three-year deal instead of the longer four-year option allows him to enter free agency at the age of 30, which is a crucial detail. By completing ten years of service in the NBA by the 2027-28 season, he will be eligible to sign or extend for 35% of the salary cap. This setup positions him to potentially earn a projected max of about $65.5 million per season starting in 2027, according to NBA front office insider Bobby Marks.

Furthermore, this contract structure not only benefits Mitchell financially but also offers him more control over his career trajectory. He will be eligible to sign a new four-year extension in July 2026, which could further maximize his earnings and stability in the league. This strategic decision underlines a growing trend among NBA players who seek not just financial security but also greater autonomy over their professional paths.

What lies next for Donovan Mitchell?

Donovan Mitchell has been a franchise player for the Cleveland Cavaliers so far after they acquired him from the Utah Jazz in 2022. Also, Mitchell delivered, considering the expectations, as his team made it into every playoff after he joined. Last season, the Cavs even made it to the Eastern Conference semi-finals as well, but could not get past the Boston Celtics. Notably, Mitchell was not available for two games against the Celtics, as he was suffering from a calf injury.

Despite the setback in the postseason, the 5x All-Star averaged 26.6 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.1 rebounds in the previous season. He is one of the best guards in the NBA right now and still has ambitions to attain championship goals alongside Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. Even this year’s extension is a great sign of how Mitchell wants his team to be a competitive championship contender, as per ESPN. Therefore, roster optimization is the prime motive for the Cavaliers to produce a better result.

Already, Spida can dominate the game with his outside shooting and scoring abilities. If he gets someone able to play on both sides of the court, it will add to his offense game. A two-way player, along with some bench strength for the center, will boost the team strength of the Cavs. Let’s hope that the upcoming season brings out the best from Donovan Mitchell and Co.

But before you go, be sure to check this video of Leonardo Armato’s take on the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe.