Dark horse suitor - Minnesota Timberwolves
Why would the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are enjoying their best season in years, shake things up drastically with a massive trade? Simply put, because father time is undefeated. Mike Conley has been a masterful point guard for Minnesota, but he's going to be 37 soon. If the T-Wolves want to extend their title window, perhaps they could go after his long-term replacement.
Minnesota may indeed have an interest in Garland. Per Right Down Euclid's Evan Dammarell, a source says the Wolves should be considered a dark horse because they have had an interest in the guard since they tried trading up to select him in 2019. He and rising superstar Anthony Edwards could be a fierce backcourt for years to come.
Dark horse suitor - New Orleans Pelicans
Like the Cavaliers, the New Orleans Pelicans could be inching toward a breakup between their stars. Per veteran NBA insider Marc Stein (subscription required), the Pelicans are expected to shop their star wing. If so, a swap of stars between the Pelicans and Cavaliers could make some level of sense for both parties.
For Cleveland, they'd add a star wing who can provide scoring. Ingram might be one of the better pieces they could get in return for Garland, helping them remain competitive. Garland could be a leading floor general down in New Orleans, fitting seamlessly next to Zion Williamson and shaking things up for a Pelicans team that may need to try something new.
Stay tuned for more NBA analysis.