The Sacramento Kings have been eyeing Cleveland Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter in a potential deal for Dennis Schroeder, Keon Ellis and Dario Saric, according to a report from HoopsHype.
“Cleveland and Sacramento have discussed a framework that would send Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter to the Kings for Keon Ellis, Dennis Schroeder, and Dario Saric, league sources told HoopsHype. A third team could be looped in to take on Saric, and second-round draft pick compensation also could be added to the framework, sources said.”
The report states that a separate deal had been discussed for Hunter, but included Ellis and Malik Monk. The Cavs aren’t interested in that deal, however, because of Monk’s contract.
“Another trade variation discussed included Malik Monk and Ellis going to Cleveland for Hunter, but the Cavaliers were concerned about Monk’s $41.77 million over the next two seasons, HoopsHype has learned.”
Hunter, a 7-year veteran, is currently averaging 14 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 26 minutes per game. He’s only shooting 30% from three (a career-low) though and 42% from the field. In recent seasons, however, he has hovered around 40% from three. The 28-year old Hunter has played on two teams (the Cavs and Atlanta Hawks). He was drafted with the 4th overall pick in 2019.
Hunter is making $23 million this season and $24 million next season. He has had some injury issues throughout his career and modest box score production, but is a good wing defender at 6’7’’. He may never live up to being the 4th pick but has proven to be a rotational NBA player. He can shoot, but you wish his rebounding and playmaking ability was a little more than it is. But we all know how the Kings need someone other than Keegan Murray out on the wing.