Cavs’ Koby Altman: Trade For De’Andre Hunter Beneficial For Both Now And Future

A lot of people felt as if the Cavaliers needed another piece despite their historic season and 41-10 start. 

Well, those people have gotten their wish — as the trade for small forward De’Andre Hunter is official. In return, the Cavs sent guard Caris LeVert, forward Georges Niang, three second-round picks (2027, 2029, and 2031) and two pick swaps to Atlanta.

The deal was made official by the NBA and announced by both the Cavaliers and Hawks just after midnight Friday.

“The acquisition of De’Andre Hunter and the potential impact a player of this caliber can bring to Cleveland is immeasurable,” president of basketball operations Koby Altman said in a statement. “His defensive versatility, in addition to his ability to make shots from the perimeter strengthens our overall depth to an elite level.”

While losing LeVert and Niang will be emotionally difficult in the locker room, this trade was truly a no-brainer. Hunter is the type of wing who could push the Cavs to a whole new level.

Yes, even higher than they’ve already achieved.

“We were presented with a great opportunity with this trade, one that was beneficial for the short- and long-term future of this franchise,” Altman added. “While it’s always difficult to part ways with players who have meant so much to our success, we believe De’Andre, at 27 years old, aligns with our long-term vision of sustainable success and ultimately competing for championships.”

Hunter is indeed having a career year and was a true Cavs-killer in the three matchups with the Hawks this season. (Two of which were won by Atlanta.)

He is averaging career-highs in points (19.0), 3-point shooting (39.3%) and steals (0.84) and is the type of wing who can help defend the likes of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. He is likely to continue coming off the bench in Cleveland and remain in the hunt for Sixth Man of the Year honors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Of course, there’s also a chance Hunter could move into a starter role alongside the so-called core four of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

So far, coach Kenny Atkinson has used everyone from Dean Wade to Max Strus to Isaac Okoro to LeVert in that role.

Meanwhile, again, it won’t be easy for the Cavs to be without LeVert and Niang. Both could be inconsistent, but both were a major part of a team that may be the league’s most pleasant surprise.

“We want to thank both Caris and Georges for their contributions to our organization,” Altman said. “Their professionalism and dedication both on and off the court have been instrumental in our historic start this season.

“Caris’ adaptability along with Georges’ leadership and experience have been invaluable, and their time in Cleveland has left a profound and lasting impression. We wish them nothing but the best for the remainder of their NBA careers.”

Hawks GM Landry Fields thanked Hunter and said LeVert and Niang “fit the culture we are building here and both are having productive seasons on-court.”

The Cavaliers visit the Washington Wizards on Friday night, then return home to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday.