Hoops Wire Live: Cavs Make A-Plus Trade; What May Be Next?

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio — Everyone said the Cavaliers might need some size on the wing, another reserve/starter who could really score and defend, and someone who plays with an edge.

De’Andre Hunter, welcome to Cleveland. I discuss the Hunter trade at length — as well as the Ben Simmons rumors — on the latest Hoops Wire Live from 330 to Go. Watch here on YouTube or directly below.

Hunter brings outside shooting, defense, athleticism, an excellent work ethic and as one rival GM told me, “is a guy who will get 50-50 balls, and those matter.”

So, yeah. Great trade. It hurts to lose Caris LeVert and the always fun-lovin’ and trash-talkin’ Georges Niang, sent to the Atlanta Hawks in the deal. But in the NBA, to get someone you really like you often have to surrender someone you love.

As I explained on the show, that locker room just won’t be the same without Niang. He kept things lively and fun, and made sure spirits were high. He’ll be missed in practice, in games, etc.

LeVert is a quieter guy, but a fantastic teammate who always went full speed. I mean, the man’s foot is always on the pedal (for better or for worse). But Hunter is having a career year off the bench. You just have to make that trade.

And I think he’ll continue to come off the bench in Cleveland. At least at the start. But who knows? That’s for coach Kenny Atkinson to decide. At 41-10 in his first season, Atkinson is very clearly in charge of how this plays out. He’s under no pressure to start anyone he doesn’t want.

It’s all about where guys fit. They all not only get that — they love it. Winning 41 of your first 51 will do that for a team’s belief in its coach.

And everyone should also really believe in the front office. Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman and GM Mike Gansey have just done a masterful job of making all the right moves. Hunter is just the most recent example.

Anyway, check out the show for all my thoughts. Thanks, as always, for following along.