NBA Trade Grades: 3-Team Deal with Cavs Landing Dennis Schröder, Keon Ellis
The NBA trade deadline week is here, and the deals have already started flowing. On late Saturday night, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings, and Chicago Bulls agreed to a three-team swap. Here's the breakdown, via ESPN insider Shams Charania:
Cavs Get: Dennis Schröder, Keon Ellis
Kings Get: De'Andre Hunter
Bulls Get: Dario Saric, two second-round picks
This deal brings significant changes to each team's roster and strategy.
Cavs' Trade Grade: A
The Cavaliers are bolstering their lineup with two key additions. Dennis Schröder, a skilled ball handler, provides insurance for Darius Garland's injury and can lead second units as a shot-creator. Keon Ellis, a tough defender with three-point shooting ability, adds depth to the team's stretch run. The Cavs' net-rating with Hunter on the floor is -0.5, and it jumps to +9.5 when he's off the court, indicating that Hunter's presence hinders the team's performance. This trade helps address the Cavs' depth issues and gives them a better chance in the playoffs.
Kings' Trade Grade: C
The Kings are trading away Schröder, who has been underperforming this season, and acquiring De'Andre Hunter. Hunter, known for his 3-and-D abilities, has struggled this year, shooting only 30.8% from three-point range and having a true shooting percentage of 55.3%, which is below league average. However, the Kings are taking on Hunter's inflated salary next year to avoid Schröder's partial guarantee in 2027-28. This move provides the Kings with another wing player to fill out their lineups.
Bulls' Trade Grade: A
The Bulls are making a strategic move by acquiring two second-round picks and Dario Saric, who has barely played in the last two years. While Saric's performance has been poor, the Bulls are getting these picks for a minimal cost, as they reportedly waived Jevon Carter in a corresponding move. This deal provides the Bulls with additional assets for future trades or draft considerations.
This three-team trade has significant implications for the playoff race, with the Cavs strengthening their chances and the Kings and Bulls making strategic moves to improve their positions.
