The Cleveland Cavaliers and Sacramento Kings have reportedly discussed a trade framework that would send forward De’Andre Hunter to the Kings in exchange for Keon Ellis, Dennis Schroder, and Dario Saric, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. League sources indicate a third team could be involved to absorb Saric, with the potential addition of second-round draft pick compensation.
Hunter, 28, is averaging 14.0 points and 4.2 rebounds per game this season while playing 26.2 minutes per contest over 43 games. His contract carries a $24.91 million salary for next season. The Cavaliers sit fifth in the Eastern Conference at 29-21, making roster flexibility and cap considerations key as they aim to solidify playoff positioning.
Sacramento, currently last in the Western Conference at 12-38, could bolster its lineup with Hunter’s versatility on both ends of the floor. Ellis, 26, contributes 5.6 points per game in limited minutes and becomes extension-eligible on February 9, with the risk of entering unrestricted free agency if unsigned by the end of the season.
Schroder, 32, averages 12.8 points and 5.3 assists per game and is owed $14.81 million next season with a partially guaranteed $4.35 million for 2027-28. Saric, 31, is on an expiring $5.43 million deal, which could provide Cleveland with short-term financial flexibility.
An alternative trade scenario reportedly included Malik Monk and Ellis moving to Cleveland for Hunter, but concerns over Monk’s $41.77 million salary across the next two seasons made the Cavaliers hesitant. Monk has averaged 12.5 points and 2.0 assists per game in 40 outings this season.
The Kings would gain a forward capable of complementing Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, who are averaging 19.3 and 19.0 points per game, respectively.
