The Los Angeles Lakers have spoken with the Cleveland Cavaliers about acquiring forward De’Andre Hunter before the 2026 NBA trade deadline, but multiple league sources believe the level of Los Angeles’ interest has been overstated, according to reporters Marc Stein and Jake Fischer.
While the two front offices have reviewed a concept that would send Rui Hachimura, rookie guard Dalton Knecht and a third-team component to Cleveland, no agreement is considered imminent. The Lakers are reportedly reluctant to absorb Hunter’s $24.9 million salary for the 2026-27 season, a figure that would cut into the organization’s projected summer cap space.
Maintaining financial flexibility is viewed internally as critical for Los Angeles, which hopes to chase another star in free agency or via trade. The franchise has also been mentioned as a potential suitor should two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo become available, a scenario that would require both cap room and draft assets.
Hunter, 28, is averaging 14.0 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 42.3% from the field and 30.8% from three in 43 games (23 starts) this season. Despite his reputation as a 3-and-D wing, his current shooting numbers and sizable contract have tempered the Lakers’ willingness to meet Cleveland’s asking price.
With the deadline approaching, Los Angeles is expected to continue surveying the market for wing help, but sources indicate the club is unlikely to part with significant assets for Hunter unless the Cavaliers lower their demands.
Source: LakersNation.com
