What happened: A 15-year-old trade sits at the start of the chain that eventually brought Donovan Mitchell to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Mitchell has become even more central to Cleveland since signing a $273 million maximum extension in July.

Why it matters: The link underscores how long NBA asset timelines can run before ending in a star acquisition. With the 2026-27 season ahead, Cleveland's roster decisions still orbit the same Donovan Mitchell who signed that new deal this summer.

What to watch: The next marker is how the Cavaliers shape the rest of the offseason around Mitchell before training camp. Any further roster move will show how Cleveland plans to build on its current core.