The NBA is now in a quiet phase of the offseason, with the next major event being the release of the full NBA schedule on Thursday. Most of the significant transactions occurred right at the beginning of free agency on June 30th, and it seems that most teams have settled into their rosters as they prepare for training camp and the upcoming season. With Lauri Markkanen re-signing with the Jazz, trade discussions have significantly decreased.
However, this doesn’t mean that all moves are off the table. Some teams, while content with their current rosters, might still look to make improvements. The Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Cleveland Cavaliers are all teams that could potentially make some upgrades or adjust their rosters.
Atlanta, for example, traded Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance, E.J. Liddell, Cody Zeller, and two first-round picks, but trade rumors persist. Players like Clint Capela, Larry Nance, and De’Andre Hunter have been mentioned in trade rumors this offseason and could still be moved if the right opportunity arises.
The Los Angeles Lakers have had a relatively quiet offseason, making no major changes and likely retaining much of last year’s roster, with first-round pick Dalton Knecht being the only significant addition. While the Lakers were rumored to be interested in acquiring players like Klay Thompson, Dejounte Murray, and Jonas Valanciunas, none of those deals materialized. However, the Lakers still have some tradable contracts and first-round picks available, allowing them to put together a strong offer if the right opportunity comes along.
Cleveland, on the other hand, was heavily involved in trade rumors early in the offseason but ultimately chose to re-sign Donovan Mitchell and keep both Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen. With a new coaching staff in place, the Cavaliers will largely stick with the same roster, but they might still look to upgrade a key position if the chance presents itself.
Here’s a breakdown of the proposed three-team trade:
### **Trade Proposal:**
**Atlanta Hawks Receive:**
– Rui Hachimura (from Los Angeles)
– Gabe Vincent (from Los Angeles)
**Los Angeles Lakers Receive:**
– Larry Nance Jr. (from Cleveland)
– Caris LeVert (from Cleveland)
– 2025 2nd-round pick (via Minnesota, from Cleveland)
– 2026 2nd-round pick (via Memphis, protected 31-42, from Cleveland)
**Cleveland Cavaliers Receive:**
– De’Andre Hunter (from Atlanta)
### **Why Each Team Does This Deal:**
**1. Atlanta Hawks:**
– **Rationale:** The Hawks are looking to get bigger and more versatile, and Rui Hachimura fits this need well. As a versatile forward, Hachimura can start alongside Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson, and either Clint Capela or Onyeka Okongwu, providing more size and scoring ability. He offers more consistency and offensive upside than De’Andre Hunter. Additionally, Gabe Vincent provides a reliable backup point guard option, which is crucial given Kobe Bufkin’s injury concerns and unproven status. This trade also helps Atlanta save money and stay under the luxury tax, which is a significant advantage.
**2. Los Angeles Lakers:**
– **Rationale:** The Lakers acquire Larry Nance Jr. and Caris LeVert, two versatile players who can contribute immediately. Nance brings defensive versatility and the ability to play multiple frontcourt positions, while LeVert adds scoring and playmaking off the bench. The two second-round picks add future assets for potential trades or depth. While the Lakers give up Hachimura and Vincent, they improve their overall depth and flexibility, which is crucial for a deep playoff run.
**3. Cleveland Cavaliers:**
– **Rationale:** The Cavaliers land De’Andre Hunter, a solid two-way player who can start at small forward and provide perimeter defense and three-point shooting. Hunter’s addition allows the Cavs to maintain their defensive identity while giving them a young player with room to grow alongside Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, and Evan Mobley. Moving Larry Nance Jr. and Caris LeVert helps clear the logjam on the wing and frontcourt, making room for Hunter to take on a significant role.
This trade is beneficial for all three teams, addressing specific needs while improving roster balance and financial flexibility.
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