Cleveland Trades De’Andre Hunter to Sacramento for Ellis, Schroder
In a significant trade, the Cleveland Cavaliers have dealt De’Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings. In this three-team trade, the Cavaliers received Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, marking a strategic move for the team as the trade deadline approached.
Cleveland Cavaliers Improve Their Roster
This trade is a win for the Cavaliers, financially and strategically. They are estimated to save nearly $47 million in salary and taxes while enhancing their roster with Ellis, a noted defender and shooter.
De’Andre Hunter has not met expectations, averaging only 13.9 points per game and struggling with a three-point shooting percentage of just 30.9%. His inconsistent performance, combined with emerging talent Jaylon Tyson, allowed the Cavs to make this move.
Key Details of the Trade
- The Cavaliers received Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder.
- Cleveland improved their perimeter defense with Ellis, who has a three-point shooting percentage of 36.8% this season.
- Schroder, averaging 12.8 points and 5.3 rebounds, adds depth at the point guard position.
- The Kings acquire Hunter along with $10.1 million in salary for next season.
- Chicago will acquire one or two late second-round picks by taking on Dario Saric.
Implications for the Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings, currently struggling with a record of 12-38, were aiming for a late first-round pick for Ellis but did not secure any draft selections in this deal. They believe Hunter can positively impact their wing position, and a pairing with Keegan Murray could be promising.
With this trade, the Kings are moving into a bigger financial commitment, adding $6.9 million in salary this season. Sacramento’s ownership has expressed reluctance to pay the luxury tax for a team positioned last in the Western Conference.
Cleveland’s Future Outlook
With the additions of Ellis and Schroder, Cleveland has improved its chances of competing in the playoffs. The acquisition allows the Cavs to shift their rotation effectively, possibly reducing minutes for Lonzo Ball, who has underperformed this season.
As the trade landscape evolves, both the Cavaliers and Kings are likely to make further adjustments to optimize their rosters.
