De’Andre Hunter Reportedly Traded to Kings Amid Lakers Rumors
NEW YORK, January 31, 2026 – The NBA trade landscape shifted this week as forward De’Andre Hunter, a key subject of widespread trade speculation, has reportedly been dealt by the Cleveland Cavaliers. According to multiple sources, Hunter is headed to the Sacramento Kings, ending a flurry of rumors that had also heavily linked him to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Reported Deal
ESPN and other outlets reported that the Cavaliers and Kings agreed to a trade sending Hunter to Sacramento. In return, Cleveland is said to receive guards Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis, with forward Dario Saric also potentially involved in the deal. The trade provides the Kings with an established “3-and-D” wing under contract through the 2026-27 season for $24.9 million. For the Cavaliers, the move is viewed as a salary-cap maneuver and a response to the emergence of younger players like Jaylon Tyson.
Recent Performance & Injury Status
Hunter’s final games with Cleveland were marked by both production and persistent injury management. In a January 28 loss to the Phoenix Suns, he recorded 17 points, three rebounds, and three steals. However, he has been listed on recent injury reports for right knee soreness, which caused him to miss a game against the Orlando Magic on January 28. Official NBA injury reports as recently as January 28 listed him as “Available” despite the knee issue.
Key Facts & Contract Details
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Reported Trade | Cleveland Cavaliers trade De’Andre Hunter to Sacramento Kings for Dennis Schroder, Keon Ellis (and potentially Dario Saric). |
| 2025-26 Season Averages | 13.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists per game (with Cleveland). |
| Current Contract | Owed $24.9 million for the 2026-27 season. |
| Recent Injury | Right knee soreness; listed as available but missed one game on January 28. |
| Primary Rumored Suitors | Sacramento Kings (completed), Los Angeles Lakers (discussions occurred). |
Lakers Rumors Fizzle
Prior to the Kings deal, Hunter was a central figure in trade discussions with the Los Angeles Lakers. Reports indicated the Lakers and Cavaliers discussed a framework that would have sent Rui Hachimura and rookie Dalton Knecht to Cleveland. However, concerns over absorbing Hunter’s $24.9 million salary for next season ultimately made the Lakers hesitant, leading Sacramento to emerge as the trade partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was De’Andre Hunter officially traded?
As of January 31, 2026, multiple credible sources, including ESPN, have reported the trade is agreed upon, sending Hunter from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Sacramento Kings. Official league confirmation is typically the final step.
Why did the Cavaliers trade De’Andre Hunter?
NBA insiders suggest several reasons: to manage future salary cap constraints, due to the emergence of younger wing players on the roster, and because Hunter was perceived around the league as a “negative asset” due to his contract relative to his recent production.
What does De’Andre Hunter bring to the Sacramento Kings?
Hunter, a 6-foot-7 forward, provides the Kings with a versatile wing defender and a capable three-point shooter. He is considered a prototypical “3-and-D” player who can slot into multiple lineup configurations.
What was the Lakers’ proposed trade package?
Reports from Cleveland indicated the discussed framework involved the Lakers sending forward Rui Hachimura and guard Dalton Knecht to the Cavaliers in exchange for Hunter. The talks did not progress to a finalized agreement.