A look at Cavs’ new roster after NBA trade deadline

The Cavaliers didn’t tiptoe into the 2026 NBA trade deadline. Far from it.

Instead, president of basketball operations Koby Altman and his team jumped in headfirst.

When the dust settled, the Cavs were one of the league’s most active teams, reshaping both the roster and their financial picture in a matter of days.

The headline move, of course, was acquiring James Harden, but he wasn’t the only addition. The Cavs also brought in Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis (and two-way man Emanuel Miller), adding depth, optionality and, yes, urgency.

To do it, the Cavs moved on from Darius Garland, De’Andre Hunter, and Lonzo Ball, along with three future second-round picks. It was a clear signal. This front office chose direction over patience.

The result is a roster built to compete now, led by Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, while still holding onto a healthy stash of first-round picks. Let’s take a look: 

Cavs’ New Roster

Starters/Core

• Donovan Mitchell
• James Harden
• Evan Mobley
• Jarrett Allen
• Jaylon Tyson
  

Rotation Pieces

• Dennis Schroder
• Keon Ellis
• Max Strus (when healthy)
• Sam Merrill
• Dean Wade
• Larry Nance Jr.
• Thomas Bryant

Depth / Development

• Craig Porter Jr.
• Tyrese Proctor
• Nae’Qwan Tomlin

Two-Way Contracts

• Emanuel Miller
• Tristan Enaruna