The Cavaliers are shaking things up ahead of the deadline, dealing forward De’Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings in a three-team trade that also includes the Chicago Bulls. In return, Cleveland lands veteran guard Dennis Schroder and promising young wing Keon Ellis, while the Bulls pick up Dario Saric and a pair of future second-round picks.
Let’s break this down.
Cleveland’s Shift: Adding Experience and Defensive Depth
For the Cavs, this isn’t just a roster tweak-it’s a strategic pivot. De’Andre Hunter had been on the radar of several teams for months, but Cleveland wasn’t about to move him for anything less than meaningful value. They got it.
Dennis Schroder brings playoff experience, on-ball creation, and a steady veteran presence to a Cleveland backcourt that’s dealt with its share of injuries and inconsistency. He’s not going to carry your offense, but he doesn’t need to. What he does offer is a change of pace, a high motor, and the ability to take pressure off Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell-especially in key stretches when ball security and decision-making matter most.
Then there’s Keon Ellis. While he may not be a household name yet, around the league, he’s earned a reputation as a gritty, defensive-minded wing who plays with energy and discipline. He’s the kind of under-the-radar addition that could pay dividends in a playoff rotation-especially for a team that values perimeter defense and flexibility.
Sacramento’s Target: A Wing with Size and Versatility
The Kings, meanwhile, get the type of player they’ve been hunting for: a two-way wing with size. Hunter fits the mold perfectly.
He can guard multiple positions, knock down open shots, and doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. Sacramento’s been looking to fortify its wing rotation, and Hunter gives them a versatile piece who can slot into a variety of lineups.
This move also signals that the Kings are serious about addressing their defensive shortcomings. With Hunter in the mix, they’ve got a better shot at matching up against some of the West’s bigger perimeter threats-something that’s been a challenge in past postseason runs.
Chicago’s Play: Asset Accumulation and Stretch Big Depth
As for the Bulls, they step in to round out the deal and walk away with a solid return. Dario Saric adds a stretch big to their frontcourt-someone who can space the floor, make smart passes, and contribute in a reserve role. More importantly, the two future second-round picks give Chicago some added flexibility going forward, whether for draft-night maneuvering or future trades.
Bottom Line
This is one of those rare three-team deals where everyone walks away with something that fits. Cleveland gets veteran stability and a young defensive piece.
Sacramento lands the wing defender it’s been craving. Chicago adds depth and draft capital.
With the trade deadline approaching, this won’t be the last move we see-but it’s a smart, calculated one that could have ripple effects in the playoff picture.