The Lakers and Warriors are highly unlikely to acquire Hunter! The Kings make a 3-for-1 offer to snatch him: Is Schröder about to change teams again?

On February 1st, with the trade deadline nearing, the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors have both been rumored to be involved in trades for Cleveland Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter, yet it appears unlikely that either team will secure him. Journalists Fischer and Stein reported this today and clarified the reasons why the Warriors and Lakers are probably out of the running.

Regarding the Lakers: “League sources reveal that recent reports about the Lakers’ interest in Hunter this week have been exaggerated. The two sides did have contact during this trade window, but the Lakers are unwilling to take on Hunter’s $24.9 million contract next season if it compromises their salary cap flexibility for the upcoming offseason.”

Regarding the Warriors: “There are reports that the Warriors explored small trades involving Kuminga’s contract and considered Hunter to some extent. This also raised the possibility of Kuminga reuniting with former Warriors assistant coach Kenny Atkinson in Cleveland. However, all this occurred before the Warriors prioritized Giannis Antetokounmpo as their main target for the trade deadline.”

The 28-year-old Hunter is currently in his seventh NBA season. In 43 games played (23 starts), he averages 26.2 minutes per game, contributing 14.0 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.1 rebounds, with a shooting percentage of 42.3%.

According to the latest update from reporter Scotto, the Cavaliers and Kings have begun negotiations on a trade proposal that would send Hunter to Sacramento, while Dennis Schröder, Keon Ellis, and Dario Šarić would head to Cleveland.

In this proposed deal, the Cavaliers are expected to save about $1.5 million in salary; meanwhile, the team would acquire talented forward Ellis and add Schröder as an option in the backcourt. Šarić is likely to be waived, as he has seen very limited playing time this season.

With Hunter joining, the Kings’ total salary this season will increase slightly, and next season’s payroll will rise by roughly $10 million. Hunter’s arrival will pair him with Keegan Murray, adding a versatile forward to help the Kings reshape their roster.

If this trade goes through, Schröder will be changing teams once again. Throughout his career, Schröder has played for ten teams: the Hawks, Thunder, Lakers, Celtics, Rockets, Raptors, Nets, Warriors, Pistons, and Kings.