New NBA Rumors on Cavs, 'Status Quo' Possible Amid Donovan Mitchell, James Harden Buzz

The Cleveland Cavaliers were completely outplayed as the New York Knicks swept them in the Eastern Conference Finals and seemingly need to make some changes to take the next step, but they reportedly could run things back in 2026-27.

"We have to acknowledge that one pathway is status quo," ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported on Wednesday's episode of his Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective podcast (34-minute mark). "I know steam comes out of people's ears in Cleveland. … They do not want to even discuss that. 

"… I know talking to some people in and around the organization that it is on the table. I don't think that's where they're going to go. But it's not good reporting to tell you that's not on the table because it is."

Cleveland already reportedly took one step toward maintaining the status quo, as ESPN's Shams Charania reported Tuesday it will bring head coach Kenny Atkinson back next season.

Yet Charania also reported "after a lopsided series against the Knicks, the Cavs are expected to be opportunistic this summer with potential roster moves."

Knicks-Cavaliers Highlights

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The backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and James Harden figures to be the starting point this offseason. Harden has a $42.3 million player option for next season, while Mitchell is eligible to sign an extension.

"I love it here," Mitchell told reporters. "I don't know how else to say it, but I love it here. We have unfinished business. This city deserves a ring and we're just gonna keep going.

Harden also said he "100 percent" wants to return.

Windhorst previously reported on both guards and noted Mitchell could land a new five-year deal worth approximately $350 million by waiting until 2027. That means he could just remain on his status quo contract heading into the next season, although "that path would lead to Mitchell becoming an unrestricted free agent, a cloud that would hang over the Cavs."

Windhorst also reported "there is an understanding that the Cavs plan to work out a new deal to retain Harden."

Still, the Knicks series made it clear the Cavaliers need to change something to reach the NBA Finals. Perhaps they will explore a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo by offering Evan Mobley and draft capital. Perhaps they will look to bring in more role players to bolster the supporting cast.

Or perhaps they will bring back LeBron James in a homecoming that would be a fitting way to end his career.

Cleveland figures to be under the spotlight throughout the offseason until it chooses a path, but the path of not making major changes is reportedly at least on the table.