The Cleveland Cavaliers have been searching for the right piece to complement their core, and they believe they’ve found it in De’Andre Hunter. In a move that balances both short-term competitiveness and long-term flexibility, Cleveland is acquiring the two-way forward from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, three second-round picks, and two pick swaps, per ESPN sources.
For the Cavs, this trade is about fit. With Donovan Mitchell’s long-term future in Cleveland still uncertain, the team is looking to build a more cohesive and balanced roster around him, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Hunter, a versatile forward with defensive prowess and an improving offensive game, checks several boxes.
Meanwhile, Atlanta moves off Hunter’s contract while adding a scoring playmaker in LeVert, a reliable floor spacer in Niang, and additional draft capital.
Breaking Down the De’Andre Hunter Trade
According to ESPN’s senior NBA insider Shams Charania, the full trade details are as follows:
Cleveland Cavaliers receive: De’Andre Hunter
Atlanta Hawks receive: Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, three second-round picks, two pick swaps
The Atlanta Hawks are trading forward De'Andre Hunter to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, three second-round picks and two swaps, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/5fpE4LJzpK
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 6, 2025
Cleveland’s goal is clear: add a defensive-minded, multi-positional forward who complements their core without disrupting their offensive flow. Hunter fits that bill. On the other side, Atlanta secures financial flexibility and assets while still bringing in players who can contribute right away.
Cleveland Cavaliers Add Defensive Versatility and Depth
At 6’8”, Hunter brings much-needed size and defensive versatility to Cleveland’s lineup. The 26-year-old forward can guard multiple positions and has the strength to match up with bigger wings — something the Cavs have lacked at times. He’s also a career 35% three-point shooter, making him a viable off-ball threat alongside Mitchell and Garland.
Hunter’s offensive game has seen gradual improvement over the years, but he isn’t a primary creator. However, in Cleveland, he won’t need to be. His ability to hit open shots and take on tough defensive assignments should allow him to thrive in a role that doesn’t require him to do too much offensively. With Mobley and Allen protecting the paint, Hunter’s presence on the perimeter could make the Cavs an even bigger threat in the East.
Atlanta Hawks Prioritize Future Flexibility
For Atlanta, this trade is largely about financial flexibility and reshaping the roster. Hunter is under contract for two more seasons after this one at roughly $24 million per year. While he’s a solid player, the Hawks have been looking to rework their wing rotation. Moving Hunter’s deal opens up opportunities for younger players to take on larger roles.
LeVert, on the other hand, gives Atlanta a proven scorer and secondary ball-handler who can create his own shot. His contract expires after this season, which could give the Hawks additional cap space to work with this summer. Niang, a reliable three-point shooter, provides depth at forward, while the added draft assets give Atlanta more flexibility in future deals.
This deal makes sense for both sides. Cleveland adds a two-way wing who fits well within its current core, while Atlanta secures more financial flexibility and assets for future moves. If Hunter can stay healthy and embrace his role, this could be a big win for the Cavs as they push for a deep playoff run.
