There is increasing talk that Donovan Mitchell may extend his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the near future. There are now more specifics regarding the deal’s structure in that buzz.

It is “widely expected,” according to veteran NBA insider Marc Stein, that Mitchell will sign a contract extension with the Cavaliers in the near future. And instead of the maximum four years, according to Stein, it might be for three.

No matter how many times doubters like yours sincerely stated that Donovan Mitchell of Cleveland would not be a target to partner with Jalen Brunson, there was always chatter regarding Mitchell. (It is now generally anticipated that Mitchell and the Cavaliers will agree on a contract extension in the next few days, probably for three instead of four years.)

Over the length of the agreement, Mitchell might receive $151 million from a three-year extension. This would offer Mitchell additional freedom to negotiate another extension after year 10, when he would be qualified for a larger deal worth 35% of the salary cap, similar to a four-year contract with a player option in year four. That would be the rationale behind a three-year contract more than anything else.

If Mitchell is willing to sign an extension, the Cavaliers should do so. Cleveland has no business justification for getting worked up over this. Their only concern is advancing their plans with Mitchell.

In which case, three years? Fantastic. if he desires a team option and a four-year contract? Fantastic as well. Since Mitchell has the upper hand in this situation, he will succeed in his goals.