Cavaliers Make Bold Move at Trade Deadline, Acquiring De’Andre Hunter to Strengthen Championship Hopes

As NBA teams scramble to improve their rosters at the Trade Deadline with eyes set on the Larry O’Brien Trophy, the Cleveland Cavaliers made a bold move that doesn’t guarantee a championship, but certainly brings them a step closer.

On Thursday, just before the clock struck on the Trade Deadline, the Cavaliers, who lead the league with a 41-10 record, made a strategic acquisition by sending Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, three second-round picks, and two pick swaps to Atlanta for 27-year-old forward De’Andre Hunter.

Hunter, who was the Hawks’ second-leading scorer this season despite primarily coming off the bench, is having his best year yet, averaging 19.0 points per game on 46.1% shooting, including a career-high 39.3% from beyond the arc.

At 6-7, 225 pounds, Hunter is an athletic, versatile wing that gives Cleveland more depth in both offense and defense. He was selected 4th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, just one spot behind Cavaliers’ All-Star Darius Garland.

Cleveland Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman spoke on the impact of the acquisition:
“The addition of De’Andre Hunter adds immeasurable value.

His defensive versatility, combined with his ability to stretch the floor, elevates our team’s depth to an elite level. We believe this move aligns with our long-term vision and our commitment to competing for championships.”

Hunter comes to Cleveland with a reputation as one of the league’s most tenacious defenders, having posted a career-high 0.84 steals per game this season.

His ability to defend multiple positions will bolster the Cavaliers’ already stellar defense. With the added scoring threat on the offensive side, Hunter fits seamlessly into Cleveland’s championship aspirations.

Throughout his six-year career, Hunter has split time as a starter and reserve, having started 241 of his 300 career games. This season, however, he’s showcased his ability to score in various roles, averaging career highs in both field goal attempts and three-point shooting.

His ability to be a catch-and-shoot weapon makes him a valuable addition to the Cavaliers’ offense, which ranks among the best in the league.

Cleveland’s trade involved parting ways with two valuable veterans from their second unit: Caris LeVert and Georges Niang. LeVert, who arrived in Cleveland via trade from Indiana in 2022, had his best shooting season but had seen a dip in minutes and scoring this year.

Niang, a fan favorite known for his scoring and toughness, was also a consistent presence off the bench. Both players were key contributors during the Cavaliers’ strong start this season, and Altman expressed gratitude for their time in Cleveland.

“We want to thank Caris and Georges for their professionalism, leadership, and contributions to our success this season,” said Altman. “Both have left a lasting impression on our team, and we wish them all the best moving forward.”

Despite losing two important players, the Cavaliers’ acquisition of De’Andre Hunter dramatically reshapes their roster. Hunter’s scoring and defensive ability make Cleveland even more dangerous as they look to solidify their spot as the Eastern Conference’s gold standard.

With 21 games this season scoring over 20 points, including a 35-point performance last week against Minnesota, Hunter’s ability to perform in big moments will make him a key part of Cleveland’s push for the playoffs and beyond.

Hunter’s success against the Cavaliers this season also stands out. In three games against Cleveland, he’s averaged 24.7 points per game on 54% shooting, underscoring the threat he brings to the floor. His performance against Cleveland in the past gives fans confidence in his ability to make an immediate impact.

As the Cavaliers continue their dream season with a 15-game win streak heading into the All-Star break, the addition of Hunter makes their championship aspirations even more realistic.

With the team’s chemistry at an all-time high, Cleveland’s front office has shown they’re all-in on the current season. De’Andre Hunter will be a major piece in the Cavaliers’ journey as they aim for greatness.