The Los Angeles Lakers are searching for upgrades ahead of next week’s trade deadline, and one player has emerged as their top target.
Clutch Points NBA insider Brett Siegel said Wednesday that Cleveland Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter is atop LA’s wish list this trade season.
“The Lakers, they’re active in trade talks to try and get a 3-and-D wing, and De’Andre Hunter is certainly at the top of their list,” Siegel said.
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Hunter is averaging 13.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists this season. He’s shooting 42% from the field and 30.6% from three. He’s in his second season in Cleveland after being acquired from the Atlanta Hawks at last year’s deadline.
He’s widely considered one of the top wing defenders in the NBA and would drastically upgrade the Lakers’ perimeter defense, which has been an issue this season. LA is No. 25 in the league in defensive rating (117.3), allowing 116.5 points per game.
Hunter is making $23.3 million this season and is guaranteed around $50M through next season. He’s set to be an unrestricted free agent next offseason.
The Lakers have two first-round picks available to trade. Forward Rui Hachimura’s $18.2M expiring contract would be one to watch in a Hunter deal. Other Lakers reportedly on the trade block include Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber and Gabe Vincent.
Hunter’s in his seventh NBA season after being selected No. 4 overall by the Hawks in the 2019 NBA Draft. He’s been a reliable 3-point shooter in his career, as he’s shot over 38% the past two seasons.
