The Cleveland Cavaliers have traded forward De’Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings as part of a three-team deal that brings Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis to Cleveland, sources told ESPN on Saturday.
The Chicago Bulls are also involved in the transaction, acquiring Kings forward Dario Saric along with two future second-round picks.
Impact for the Cavaliers
For Cleveland, the move addresses immediate roster balance and financial flexibility. By moving Hunter, who had recently seen his role diminish, the Cavaliers add veteran depth to their backcourt. Schroder, a seasoned point guard, provides insurance for Darius Garland and brings playoff experience to a team looking to make a deep run. He is currently averaging 12.8 points and 5.3 assists per game.
Perhaps more significantly, the addition of Keon Ellis gives Cleveland a young, energetic defender who fits the mold of a “3-and-D” wing. Ellis, 26, is shooting 41.6% from beyond the arc in his career. The trade also creates substantial financial relief for the Cavaliers. Sources indicate the team will generate nearly $50 million in salary and luxury tax savings this season while creating a traded player exception.
Kings Add Wing Depth
Sacramento lands Hunter, a player they have reportedly targeted for some time. Despite a fluctuating role in Cleveland this season, Hunter remains a capable two-way forward who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions. The Kings are betting that a change of scenery will help the 28-year-old recapture the form that made him a lottery pick. He is under contract through the 2026-27 season.
The deal allows Sacramento to consolidate its rotation while adding a forward with significant postseason experience. However, parting with Ellis, a promising young talent, indicates the Kings are in “win-now” mode and prioritizing established veterans.
Bulls Facilitate the Deal
Chicago enters the trade as a facilitator, absorbing Dario Saric’s contract to make the money work. In exchange for taking on salary, the Bulls receive two second-round draft picks, continuing their strategy of asset accumulation.
This trade marks a significant pivot for the Cavaliers, who acquired Hunter just last year in hopes of solidifying their forward rotation. With Hunter falling out of favor in recent weeks, Cleveland’s front office moved quickly to turn a depreciating asset into usable depth and financial flexibility before the trade deadline.
Don't stop here
Every Score. Every Story. One Home.
Breaking sports, entertainment and news from across the Total Apex network, updated all day.
Get the Full Story →
