The Lakers and Cavaliers are discussing a trade framework that would send Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht to Cleveland in exchange for De'Andre Hunter, with a potential third team involved.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers have discussed a potential trade that would send Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht to Cleveland in exchange for De'Andre Hunter, according to Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com.
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A third team could also be involved in the deal, per the same report.
"My sources tell me that the Cavs and the Lakers have discussed a general framework surrounding De'Andre Hunter of Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht and then bringing in a third team," Fedor said on the latest Wine and Gold Talk podcast.
The Lakers have been shopping expiring contracts ahead of the February 5 trade deadline as they look to add a 3-and-D upgrade. Hachimura is playing on an expiring $18.3 million deal.
This season, the Japanese forward is averaging 12.1 points and 3.5 rebounds across 36 appearances, including 27 starts.
Recently, the 27-year-old returned from a calf injury and has moved into a bench role. Over four seasons with the Lakers, he has started 132 of 196 games.
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Meanwhile, Knecht has reportedly requested a trade. The sophomore wing has seen his role and production decline this season, averaging 4.8 points and 1.5 rebounds in 12.4 minutes per game.
Hunter has been widely viewed as Cleveland's primary trade chip. He has struggled with his shooting efficiency this season, hitting 42.2 percent from the field and 30.9 percent from three-point range.
The 28-year-old is averaging 13.9 points per game in his second season with the Cavaliers, after spending six years with the Atlanta Hawks.
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