The first NBA trade deadline trade went down late last night, and while it wasn’t a shock, it did have some surprising elements. After gaining much steam yesterday, the Cleveland Cavaliers pulled the trigger and sent De’Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis. The Chicago Bulls were also involved in the transaction, acquiring Dario Saric from the Kings and draft capital.
NBA Trade Grades: What Does The De’Andre Hunter-Keon Ellis Trade Mean for the Cavs, Kings, and Bulls
While this three-team trade isn’t a blockbuster, it could kick-start an interesting next few days. Hunter, who has struggled mightily this year, drew some interest before ultimately being sent to the Kings. The Kings are Hunter’s third team, and the third time he has been traded, including the second consecutive year that he has been dealt at the trade deadline. The Cavs acquired him from Atlanta on February 6, 2024, for Caris LeVert and Georges Niang.
Meanwhile, Cleveland is Schroder’s 11th team. Schroder, in his first year with the Kings, is having a typical year for the 32-year-old, averaging 12.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, with shooting splits of 40.8/34.2/82.
According to NBA Cap expert Yossi Goslan, this is Schroder’s eighth trade, tied for the second most in league history. Goslan added that former NBA player Trevor Ariza holds the record for the most traded player (11).
Ellis, who was highly desired with nearly half the teams in the league showing interest, has had his ups and downs this year. His main issue was carving out a steady role with the Kings after the team brought in Schroder and Russell Westbrook this summer. The Cavaliers are Ellis’ second team, and this is the first time he has been dealt.
Sario, whom the Kings acquired from Denver for Jonas Valanciunas this summer, only totalled 41 minutes in five games this year. This is the sixth time the 31-year-old forward was traded. The Bulls are his eighth team.
Here is a look at the trade
Sacramento Kings Get
De’Andre Hunter
Cleveland Cavaliers Get
Dennis Schroder
Keon Ellis
Emanuel Miller (via Chicago)
Chicago Bulls Get
Dario Saric
Denver’s 2027 second pick (via Cavs)
Sacramento’s 2029 second-round selection, with the stipulation that it is the least favorable of picks among Detroit, Milwaukee, and New York selections.
