The rumours surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers are still circulating as the 2025–26 NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5. One of the most intriguing stories includes trade talks with the Cleveland Cavaliers that revolve around a sought-after small forward.
The Lakers, who are in the Western Conference’s playoff bubble, have made no secret of their desire to enhance their squad in preparation for the postseason run. According to reports, management is searching outside of their own roster for answers due to gaps in their wing depth and a lacklustre bench output.
The Target: De’Andre Hunter
De’Andre Hunter, a versatile 3-and-D wing who can stretch the floor and defend several spots, is the name at the top of many recent rumours involving the Cleveland Cavaliers. Because of his skill set and contract status, Hunter, who is presently averaging 13.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game this season, has become a hot topic for trade rumours.
Hunter was acquired by Cleveland from Atlanta in 2025, but his name has come up in possible transactions as the Cavaliers manage a squad that is heavily taxed by luxury and seek financial flexibility.
What’s on the Table: The Lakers’ Suggested Package
According to sources, the Lakers and Cavaliers have talked about a trade structure that may see Hunter move to Los Angeles in return for Dalton Knecht and Rui Hachimura.
Here’s a little explanation:
De’Andre Hunter (to Lakers): An accomplished wing defender and scorer.
Rui Hachimura (to Cavaliers): A big, scoring forward who was just transferred to Los Angeles’ second unit.
Dalton Knecht (to Cavaliers): A young player with little playing time but a salary that contributes to financial stability.
However, this move probably cannot be completed in a straightforward two-team trade since Cleveland is above the second tax apron, a financial threshold in the NBA. In order to make the maths work under league regulations and absorb surplus salary, a third team might be required.
Why It Makes Sense for the Lakers
The goal for Los Angeles is obvious: find versatility, defence, and wing scoring to complement players like LeBron James and Luka Dončić. Hunter may help the Lakers, who are at the bottom of the NBA in bench scoring, on both sides of the court.
Additionally, the Lakers may want to expedite their roster retooling in order to remain competitive if rumours around LeBron’s future—including speculation about a possible move east or a buyout in the future—gain momentum.
Why Cleveland Could Benefit
From the Cavaliers’ point of view, cutting Hunter’s contract gives them flexibility heading into the offseason and helps them handle luxury tax penalties. Cleveland may be considering roster and budgetary flexibility in addition to the current season, given Evan Mobley’s recent ailments.
Falling under the tax implications of keeping Hunter could limit their ability to manoeuvre later, making a salary-dump scenario intriguing.
What Supporters Have to Say
Discussions about Hunter’s potential influence in purple and gold have taken over NBA fan forums and social media. While detractors note to his erratic 3-point percentages this season as a cause for concern, some Lakers fans think he adds much-needed defensive tenacity and perimeter shooting.
Even rumours of huge agreements including LeBron James coming back to Cleveland have gone viral, but they are still far more speculative than the Hunter discussions.
What Takes Place Next?
With just a few days remaining before the trade deadline, a variety of unexpected developments could occur:
In order to balance salaries, third teams could be involved.
Later in the day, names other than Hunter might be targeted.
Both teams’ priorities may change as a result of injury developments.
In the NBA, trade momentum can shift quickly; what appears to be a peaceful negotiation today could transform into last-minute fireworks tomorrow.
Concluding Remarks
The Lakers–Cavaliers trade negotiations featuring De’Andre Hunter highlight how essential wing players have become in today’s NBA — capable of swaying both offence and defence. This is about finishing a competitive roster for Los Angeles. For Cleveland, it’s about future planning and financial adaptability.
This story is far from over, so be sure to return frequently as the deadline draws near.