Because the 2025 NBA commerce deadline approaches, the Cleveland Cavaliers are making a fairly sharp transfer, buying ahead De’Andre Hunter from the Atlanta Hawks, per a number of reviews. In return, Atlanta receives Caris LeVert and Georges Niang, plus three second-round picks and two swaps.

Hunter, 27, has spent his whole profession with the Hawks since being drafted fourth general in 2019. He turned a extra constant starter for the group in 2022, taking part in each as an influence ahead and capturing ahead. This season, he has averaged 19 factors, 3.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per recreation. Hunter is a identified defensive presence who’s capturing 39.3% on 6.7 3-point makes an attempt per recreation. Athletic measurement on the wing was one of many few issues for the East’s prime seed, however the Cavs have appeared to treatment that with the versatile 6-foot-8 ahead who received a nationwide title with Virginia in 2019.

LeVert and Niang are each itinerant veterans who will add a lift to Atlanta’s bench. LeVert, 30, has been averaging 10.2 factors per recreation, whereas Niang, 31, has averaged 8.7 factors per recreation.

With the acquisition, the 41-10 Cavaliers add extra measurement to their beginning 5 to assist enhance the wonderful however undersized backcourt of Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell. Hunter ought to begin alongside Garland, Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen because the group chases an NBA title.

In the meantime, the Hawks, who’re 23-28 and firmly in the course of the desk, will hold seeking to future draft picks to construct a group round Trae Younger.