As the February trade deadline approaches, the Cleveland Cavaliers are expected to be active in the market, looking to add to their roster.
While the list of available players remains unclear, NBA analyst Jake Weinbach predicts that Hawks forward De’Andre Hunter will attract significant interest. The Cavs, along with the Grizzlies, Lakers, Timberwolves, and Kings, are considered potential suitors.
Cavs Among Teams Interested in Hunter
The Cavs are off to a franchise-record 27-4 start. Despite this strong performance, they are still considered underdogs in the playoff race. As a result, the team could explore trade opportunities to further strengthen their roster for the postseason.
Hunter’s Compatibility with the Cavs
Hunter would be an ideal addition for Cleveland. Wing depth is a constant need for playoff contenders, and the Cavs have been thin on wings due to injuries. Currently, Isaac Okoro, a key wing player, is sidelined with a knee injury and is not expected to return for a few more weeks.
Hunter, who has spent all six seasons of his career with the Hawks, is having a breakout year, averaging 20.3 points and shooting a remarkable 44% from beyond the arc. His previous career-high was 15.6 points per game. Against Cleveland this season, Hunter has posted impressive performances, including 26 and 23 points in two games, shooting 9-16 from three-point range. Standing at 6’8″ and 225 lbs, he would be the most athletic wing on the Cavs and would add size to their current rotation.
In addition to his offensive contributions, Hunter is also excelling defensively, posting his best defensive rating since the 2021-22 season. While the Hawks as a team struggle defensively, ranking 17th in defensive rating (improved from 27th last season), Hunter has been a bright spot.
Under contract through 2027 after signing an extension in 2022, Hunter’s deal would cost Cleveland about $23.5 million per season.
The Bottom Line
It’s rare for a team performing as well as the Cavs to make a major trade like acquiring Hunter, but he would be a clear upgrade as the best wing player on the roster, slotting into the starting lineup. To make the trade work financially, Cleveland would likely need to part with either Max Strus or Okoro, but the investment could be worthwhile.
The Cavs would face competition from several teams that could offer a better trade package, which could make the deal difficult. However, adding Hunter to a team that already boasts the best offense in the league would be exciting to watch. Cleveland recently set a franchise record by scoring 149 points against the Denver Nuggets, and they currently lead the NBA in offensive rating, field goal percentage, and three-point percentage.
Although the trade deadline is still a couple of months away, Cleveland’s strong start has raised expectations. If the team experiences a dip in performance over the next few months, trade rumors are likely to intensify. However, as things stand, a deal for a player of Hunter’s caliber remains unlikely.
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