In a significant move ahead of
the NBA trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers have acquired
forward De’Andre Hunter from the Atlanta Hawks for guard Caris
LeVert, forward Georges Niang, three second-round draft picks, and
two future first-round pick swaps to Atlanta, according to ESPN’s
Shams Charania.

Trade Details:

• Cleveland
  Cavaliers Receive:
• De’Andre Hunter
• Atlanta Hawks
  Receive:
• Caris LeVert
• Georges Niang
• Three second-round draft picks
• Two future first-round pick swaps

ANALYSIS: De’Andre Hunter, 27,
is enjoying a career-best season, averaging 19 points per game
while shooting 46.1% from the field and 39.1% from beyond the arc.
His defensive prowess and scoring ability are expected to bolster
the Cavaliers’ wing depth as they aim for a deep playoff run and a
shot for a title run. They are an East-best 41-10 this season and
the addition of Hunter makes them legitimate title
contenders.

Caris LeVert, on an expiring
$16.6 million contract, and Georges Niang are anticipated to
provide the Hawks with immediate contributions and financial
flexibility moving forward, or both could also be trade pieces for
future deals.

This is a questionable move for
the Hawks after how well Hunter has played this season. This might
be attributed to the season-ending injury for young rising forward
Jalen Johnson, leading them to sell on the value for
Hunter.

This trade reflects Cleveland’s
commitment to strengthening their roster for the postseason, while
Atlanta gains valuable assets for future endeavors.