CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers are rising in the Eastern Conference after an indifferent start to the season. The Cavs sit fifth with a 29–21 record. They want to avoid future tax penalties while remaining competitive. This goal has linked the Cavaliers to a trade, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, involving De’Andre Hunter. The deal would return Dennis Schröder, Keon Ellis, and Dario Šarić.
Cavaliers To Trade De’Andre Hunter For $21.8 Million Trio
Trade Rumors Heat Up
Jan 25, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Daniss Jenkins (24) drives to the basket between Sacramento Kings guard Dennis Schroder (17) and guard Keon Ellis (23) during the during the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images
Cleveland has appeared in two separate reports involving Hunter this week. The first linked him to Los Angeles. The latest connects him to Sacramento. He’s in the third year of a $90 million contract. Next season, he will be an expiring deal.
Why The Cavaliers Make This Move
The Cavaliers would save about $1.5 million in the proposed trade. They would also add a talented wing in Ellis. They would gain another backcourt option in Schröder. The team would likely waive Šarić. Schröder and Ellis both provide guard depth. The team desperately needs it as Lonzo Ball has struggled. Schröder served as a quality playoff backup for Detroit.
What Sacramento Gains
Sacramento would add salary this season. The Kings would add about $10 million more next season. Hunter would give them another versatile forward. He would slot alongside Keegan Murray as they retool their roster.
Credit:© Bill Streicher-Imagn Images