Lakers left in dire straits after getting used to De’Andre Hunter, Ellis trades
The trade landscape changed significantly Saturday night for the NBA, as the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls finalized a complex three-team deal. The deal sends wing De’Andre Hunter to Sacramentowhile Cleveland gets veteran running back Dennis Schroder and defensive standout Keon Ellis. To facilitate the salary trade, the Bulls absorbed Dario Saric and received two future second-round picks.
The move allows the Cavaliers to reduce their luxury tax bill by $40 million and address their backcourt depth while Darius Garland remains sidelined. For the Kings, the addition of Hunter’s $23.3 million contract provides a much-needed boost to scoring on the wing as they prepare for a high-stakes postseason push.
According to Brett Siegel, this development is leaving Los Angeles Lakers in a precarious position. “No Hunter or Ellis for the Lakers,” Siegel announced on X, noting that the Feb. 5 deadline is just five days away. the impact wing market becomes “very limited”.
The Lakers have been in active talks with Cleveland for Hunter over the past 48 hours, but reportedly took a step back due to concerns about the extra years on his contract compared to Rui Hachimura’s upcoming free agency.
Now, as one of the most overlooked teams in the league, Los Angeles must look elsewhere to find the defensive length and perimeter shooting necessary to bolster their championship aspirations.
The Cavaliers’ decision to turn to the Kings was driven by a desire for immediate financial relief and defensive improvements.
U Keon Ellis, Cleveland adds a young talent whose defensive instincts are elite; opponents turned the ball over on 17.1 percent of possessions when he was on the floor for Sacramento this season. Dennis Schroder also brings veteran toughness and postseason experience to the Cavs’ guard-heavy rotation.
With the market shrinking, Los Angeles will have to act quickly or risk entering the latter part of the season without the reinforcements needed to compete in a crowded Western Conference.
2026-02-01 15:13:00
