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De'Andre Hunter Denies Trade Desire as Cavaliers Back Him, Weigh Deadline Options

Team sources say Cleveland has rebuffed offers pending a decision before the Feb. 5 deadline.

Overview

  • After reports suggested he or his representation preferred a move, Hunter told cleveland.com he has not asked out and does not want to be traded.
  • Cleveland.com reports the Cavaliers have received calls, including at least one offer for Hunter, and have turned them down to this point.
  • Hunter is mired in a career-worst shooting stretch at 42.7% from the field and 30.6% from deep, was moved to the bench on Dec. 17, and did not play the fourth quarter of Monday’s loss to Utah.
  • Coach Kenny Atkinson and star guard Donovan Mitchell voiced support, saying they expect Hunter to work through what Atkinson termed a prolonged slump.
  • Podcast reporting described league perception of frustration tied to his demotion and locker-room changes, as analysts note his salary could help Cleveland get under the second apron if plans change before the deadline.