**Cavaliers Considered as Top Destination for $90 Million Wing**
Since acquiring Donovan Mitchell in 2022, the Cleveland Cavaliers have actively worked on enhancing their wing depth. Although improvements have been made, Bleacher Report’s Tyler Conway suggests that Atlanta Hawks wing De’Andre Hunter could be a valuable addition for the team.
In an August 7 article, Conway identified the Cavaliers as a leading candidate for Hunter. He explained that adding Hunter could provide a significant upgrade, though not a transformative change. While Isaac Okoro has become a better shooter, he is still not widely respected by defenses for his perimeter scoring. Hunter could replace Okoro in the lineup, offering better offensive contributions despite Okoro’s superior perimeter defense.
Hunter, a solid two-way wing, is set to begin the second year of a four-year, $90 million contract. Although the Cavaliers strengthened their perimeter shooting with Max Strus and Georges Niang in 2023, Hunter would be a more comprehensive improvement over both.
The direction the Hawks will take for the 2024-25 season remains uncertain.
**Cavaliers Interested in De’Andre Hunter Before the 2024 Trade Deadline**
Conway’s article speculates on Hunter’s fit with the Cavaliers, but it’s noted that Cleveland had shown interest in him before. NBA Insider Marc Stein reported that Hunter was on the Cavaliers’ radar as they sought a 3-and-D upgrade. However, the challenge of absorbing Hunter’s contract—remaining three seasons and $70 million after this year—makes the trade complex for both Cleveland and Atlanta.
Although Hunter stayed with the Hawks, his future with the team remains unclear, especially after the Hawks traded Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans. The Hawks might make additional moves, but they may wait to see how the current roster performs first.
**Hunter Trade Rumors Persist**
Hunter has been the subject of trade rumors for some time. The Athletic’s John Hollinger mentioned that despite ongoing speculation, the Hawks have struggled to secure a meaningful return for him.
Given the Cavaliers’ substantial investment in Mitchell, acquiring Hunter could be challenging. Teams are cautious about exceeding the league’s second tax apron this offseason, which might influence the Hawks’ willingness to trade Hunter if it helps them save money.
Despite these obstacles, the Cavaliers are aiming for a deep playoff run and might be willing to explore all possibilities to achieve that goal.
