Load balancing of data reads in storage environments

Exemplary method, system, and computer program product embodiments for, within a data storage system performing data mirroring, performing load balancing pursuant to completing a read request. At least one of a preferred storage controller and preferred storage device to accommodate the read request is determined by performing one of selecting a request queue having a closest offset to an offset of the read request, selecting a request queue having a most requests within a predetermined distance of the offset of the read request, selecting a request queue having a closest median offset to the offset of the read request, selecting a request queue having a closest average offset to the offset of the read request, and selecting a request queue having a predetermined additional number of entries than another request queue. The selected request queue is associated with the preferred storage controller and the preferred storage device.