The Cleveland Cavaliers are going through what could be described as a mixed-bag season right now. They entered Wednesday with a 22-19 record and sit in seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings, far from their dominant form last season.
Recently, a rumor began circulating that one of their key players wanted out. De’Andre Hunter has since stepped up to clear the air himself.
De’Andre Hunter Busts a Trending Rumor Regarding Him
According to Hardwood Paroxysm, Hunter had been in conversations with the Cavaliers organization about wanting a trade to another team.
Hunter spoke with Cleveland.com to address the speculation. When asked directly if he had requested a trade, Hunter did not hesitate. He dismissed the rumor outright.
“I haven’t said a word about nothing to nobody. Not about wanting to be traded. Not about anything. When I saw the article, I was just as surprised as you probably were,” Hunter said during the practice session interview.
Hunter entered the NBA in 2019 after being selected with the fourth overall pick in that year’s draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He was traded on draft night to the Atlanta Hawks, where he spent his first six seasons developing his game. He was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers last February.
“No… Why would I want to be traded? I’m happy here for real. I have no reason not to be happy here. My time here has been great,” Hunter added.
Hardwood Paroxysm has since walked back the report. The outlet issued a statement acknowledging the mistake, admitting it had incorrectly reported the information and apologizing for the confusion. It also noted that any discussions about Hunter potentially wanting a trade may have stemmed from outdated conversations that never materialized.
On the court, Hunter is averaging 13.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. His decision to address the situation offered some relief, not just for fans but also for a Cavaliers team that cannot afford added distractions while trying to climb the Eastern Conference standings.
His scoring is down from last season, when he averaged 17.0 points per game, and his efficiency has taken a major hit — dropping from 40.5% from 3-point range to just 30.3% this year.
The Cavaliers are struggling. Through 41 games last season, Cleveland established itself as one of the NBA’s best with a 35-6 record. That is far from the 22-19 mark the Cavs hold now.
Hunter is in the third year of a four-year, $90 million contract. He will be an unrestricted free agent after next season.
