The Cleveland Cavaliers aren’t waiting around for the trade deadline buzzer. They’ve made their move-and it’s a loud one. In a three-team deal that sent De’Andre Hunter to Sacramento, the Cavs brought in veteran point guard Dennis Schroder and 26-year-old wing Keon Ellis, reshaping their backcourt and signaling that more moves are likely on the way before the February 4 deadline.
Let’s start with Schroder. He’s not a perfect player, but he’s a proven one.
The 30-year-old has been part of several winning teams and brings a brand of toughness Cleveland’s been missing. His defense is physical, his attitude is gritty, and he’s never been afraid of the moment.
For a Cavs team looking to steady the ship and make a playoff push, Schroder offers a veteran presence who knows how to handle pressure.
Then there’s Keon Ellis-an under-the-radar addition that might end up being the more impactful of the two. Ellis checks a box Cleveland’s been trying to fill all season: a perimeter defender who can stick with the league’s toughest guards and wings.
Since trading Isaac Okoro for Lonzo Ball in the offseason, the Cavs have lacked a true point-of-attack stopper. Ellis, who’s shooting 36.8% from deep this season, gives them a legitimate 3-and-D option who can defend and space the floor.
That’s a valuable combination for a team that’s leaned heavily on defense to stay in the mix.
But adding two guards to an already crowded backcourt doesn’t happen without consequences-namely, Lonzo Ball.
Ball’s time in Cleveland seems to be nearing its end. When he arrived, the vision was clear: a big-bodied, defense-first playmaker to back up Darius Garland and lead the second unit.
On paper, it made perfect sense. Ball brings size, passing, and defensive IQ to the table.
But on the court, it just hasn’t clicked. He’s struggled mightily as a scorer, shooting just 29.9% from the field and 26.9% from three.
Defenses are ignoring him entirely, choosing to double the ball and dare him to shoot. Even with his playmaking and defensive instincts still intact, the offensive drop-off has made him a liability.
Now, with Schroder in the mix and Garland healthy, there just isn’t a role for Lonzo anymore. And according to league sources, the Cavaliers are actively exploring ways to move him before the deadline.
The Washington Wizards have reportedly shown interest, willing to take on Ball’s contract in exchange for draft compensation. With nearly $30 million in luxury tax room and a handful of trade exceptions, Washington is in a position to absorb salary-especially if it comes with picks attached.
A framework could involve Cleveland sending Ball and a second-rounder in exchange for the draft rights to an overseas player who’s unlikely to ever suit up in the NBA. It’d be a pure salary dump, but one with strategic value.
Offloading Ball’s contract would not only open up a roster spot but also potentially create a Traded Player Exception (TPE) the Cavs could use in a future deal. That flexibility could be key as they continue to reshape the roster. If they don’t use the TPE right away, that open roster spot could go to Nae’Qwan Tomlin, who’s been on the team’s radar as a candidate for a standard contract.
Other teams with cap space-like the Brooklyn Nets and Utah Jazz-could also get involved if Cleveland decides to shop Ball more widely. But no matter how it plays out, the writing’s on the wall: the Cavs are ready to move on.
And this might just be the beginning.
Cleveland’s front office has clearly shifted into go-mode. After a rocky start to the season, the Cavs have played better basketball of late, and they’re looking to capitalize on that momentum.
The additions of Schroder and Ellis aren’t just about depth-they’re about identity. They give Cleveland a tougher, more versatile defensive core and a veteran who can stabilize the second unit.
With the trade deadline just days away, expect the Cavs to stay aggressive. They’ve already made one big move. Don’t be surprised if another one’s right around the corner.