NBA Rumors: Cavs, De’Andre Hunter, Lakers, draft pick, Rockets

Cavaliers

The Cavaliers continue to take calls, but a major shake-up does not appear to be on the table.

Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com reports that rival teams have checked in on De’Andre Hunter and Dean Wade, and some have even floated the idea of prying into the Cavs’ core four of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

But the message from the front office remains consistent. The Cavs believe a healthy version of this roster can still become a major factor in the East and are not eager to break it up.

That pushes any true blockbuster into the offseason, if it happens at all. Hunter, though, is viewed from the outside as a player the Cavs may be willing to move now, sources told Hoops Wire.

Either way, the Cavs are more likely to explore smaller moves at the deadline. One possible pivot involves Lonzo Ball, whose impact has not matched expectations. His contract, which includes a $10 million team option for 2026-27, could appeal to teams seeking future cap flexibility.

Fedor also notes that the Cavs have expressed interest in Mavericks forward Naji Marshall. The hang-up? Dallas is believed to be seeking at least a first-round pick, and the Cavs are hesitant to part with their lone movable first, either in 2031 or 2032.

Lakers

Dave McMenamin of ESPN reports the Lakers have explored flipping their lone tradable first-round pick for multiple lower-value firsts, similar to a deal Phoenix made with Utah last season.

The goal would be flexibility. More picks. More optionality. More paths to upgrades.

One thing we do know is Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has been exploring and reaching out to opposing teams with a couple of weeks left to make a deal.

Rockets

Houston remains open to adding frontcourt help, per Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports, especially with Steven Adams sidelined.

The Rockets’ elite offensive rebounding has powered a top-five offense, and bigger lineups remain central to their identity. Another big man could be on the way.