Lakers Eyeing De’Andre Hunter as Potential Trade Target Amid Defensive Struggles
The Los Angeles Lakers are in the market for help on the wing, and it’s no secret why. While LeBron James continues to defy Father Time and Anthony Davis anchors the paint, the Lakers have struggled to find consistent production and perimeter defense from their forward rotation. With their top target, New Orleans’ Herb Jones, looking increasingly unavailable, the Lakers may be shifting their focus east - to Cleveland’s De’Andre Hunter.
Hunter, a versatile two-way forward currently on a $90 million contract, has emerged as a name to watch as the Cavaliers reportedly weigh significant changes to their roster. According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, the Lakers are keeping close tabs on Hunter’s availability, viewing him as a viable Plan B if Jones stays off the trade table.
This wouldn’t be a mere consolation prize, either. Hunter brings a blend of size, defensive potential, and scoring that could fit well alongside the Lakers’ stars.
He’s averaging 15.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game this season, shooting 42.9% from the field. The three-point shot hasn’t been there - just 30.5% from deep, a career low - but his ability to attack closeouts, defend multiple positions, and play within a system still makes him an intriguing option.
The Cavaliers, sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference with a 15-13 record, have underwhelmed relative to expectations. That’s opened the door for teams like the Lakers to inquire about players who might be available if Cleveland decides to shake things up. Hunter, still just 25 and under contract through 2027, could be one of the more attainable impact wings on the market if the Cavs are willing to listen.
Meanwhile in Los Angeles, the need for a defensive-minded wing has become more urgent by the day. Despite a strong 19-7 record and sitting third in the West, the Lakers have been far from perfect - especially on the defensive end. Head coach JJ Redick hasn’t minced words about it, either.
According to center DeAndre Ayton, Redick recently lit into the team over their lackluster defense, calling it - in Ayton’s words - “ass.” That blunt assessment came after a stretch of games where LA’s defensive numbers took a nosedive, and opponents started to exploit the Lakers’ perimeter rotations and transition defense.
“Seeing the scouting report, what teams make of us, was pretty embarrassing,” Ayton said. “We’re a really good offensive team, but you start to look at those numbers in depth and see it over a span of 10 games, it’s terrible.”
Redick’s message was clear: it’s time to take pride on the defensive end. And with the trade deadline looming, the front office appears to be on the same page.
Even with their recent success - the Lakers have won seven of their last 10 - the cracks in the armor are showing. The offense, led by LeBron and Davis, can carry them only so far.
If they want to make a serious postseason push, especially in a loaded Western Conference, they’ll need to tighten up defensively. That starts with personnel.
Whether it’s Herb Jones, De’Andre Hunter, or another name that emerges over the next few weeks, expect the Lakers to stay aggressive in their pursuit of a wing who can defend, contribute offensively, and help balance a roster that’s still searching for its best version.