The Cleveland Cavaliers are increasingly expected to move forward De’Andre Hunter before the NBA’s Feb. 5 trade deadline, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.
League sources told ClutchPoints that the Los Angeles Lakers, along with “a couple other teams,” have engaged Cleveland in talks for the 28-year-old wing. The Los Angeles Times previously identified Hunter as a potential Lakers target.
Brooklyn has reportedly offered to act as a third-team facilitator. Siegel noted that the Nets would be open to absorbing unwanted Lakers salaries in exchange for draft compensation, while Los Angeles has shown interest in Haywood Highsmith and Day’Ron Sharpe.
Some members of the Cavaliers’ front office back a framework that would send second-year Lakers forward Dalton Knecht to Cleveland, signaling the move could serve primarily as a salary dump. Cleveland is the NBA’s only team currently above the second tax apron and faces a significant luxury-tax bill.
On Wednesday, Siegel reported that the Cavs were hesitant to accept less than the package they gave up to acquire Hunter last year—Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, three second-round picks and two pick swaps. However, momentum now appears to be building toward a deal.
Hunter is shooting a career-low 30.9 percent from three-point range this season after hitting a personal-best 40.5 percent in 2024-25. Through 42 games, he is averaging 13.9 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 26.2 minutes. His contract pays him $23.3 million for 2025-26 and $24.9 million for 2026-27.
Negotiations remain fluid, and multiple trade constructions are believed to be under discussion.
Source: HoopsRumors
