Latest NBA Rumors on Lakers, Warriors Amid De'Andre Hunter Trade Buzz at 2026 Deadline
The Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors have both been connected to Cleveland Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter as Thursday's trade deadline approaches, but neither team appears likely to land him.
NBA insiders Jake Fischer and Marc Stein reported that news via the Stein Line newsletter Saturday and explained why the Warriors and Lakers are probably out.
On the Lakers: "League sources say that the Lakers' interest in Hunter, meanwhile, has been repeatedly overstated this week. The teams have certainly talked during this transaction cycle, but the purple and gold are reticent to jeopardize their upcoming financial flexibility in the offseason by absorbing Hunter's $24.9 million salary for next season."
Regarding the Warriors: "Word is that Golden State also looked into Hunter to some degree as it explored its options in smaller deals built around Kuminga's contract — raising the prospect of Kuminga reuniting with former Warriors assistant coach Kenny Atkinson in Cleveland — but all that was before the Warriors' Giannis chase became their overwhelming focus at this deadline."
The 28-year-old Hunter is playing in his seventh NBA season. He's averaged 14.0 points on 42.3 percent shooting, 4.2 assists and 2.1 rebounds over 26.2 minutes in 43 games (23 starts).
This article will be updated soon to provide more information and analysis.
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