Photo: Peter Baba

The Cleveland Cavaliers continue to be mentioned as a potential destination for Giannis Antetokounmpo, but parting with Evan Mobley in a blockbuster deal may be a step the organization is unwilling to take.

Mobley is widely viewed as Cleveland’s most valuable trade asset, making him a natural name to surface in any discussion involving a player of Antetokounmpo’s caliber.

However, according to Chris Fedor of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, there is significant support within the franchise for keeping the young forward.

“The Cavs love Mobley, they believe in him and there are multiple members of the Cleveland brain trust that would be vehemently against a Giannis-Mobley swap,” wrote Fedor.

Mobley’s age is one factor working in his favor. The former No. 3 overall pick turns 25 this month and is six years younger than Antetokounmpo.

He is also expected to earn roughly $8 million less next season, an important consideration for a Cavaliers team navigating salary-cap restrictions and second-apron concerns.

The organization has also been impressed by Mobley’s development into a cornerstone player.

Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman recently described him as the team’s standout performer during the postseason, calling Mobley Cleveland’s “best player throughout the playoffs.”

While acquiring a superstar such as Antetokounmpo would undoubtedly be tempting, the Cavaliers appear reluctant to sacrifice a player they view as a foundational piece of both their present and future.

Some Members Of Cavs' Front Office 'Vehemently Against' Trading Evan Mobley For Giannis Antetokounmpo https://t.co/jznR80lKwO