The 2026 NBA trade season continues to captivate fans, highlighting some jaw-dropping moves that have sent ripples through the league. One standout moment was Trae Young’s unexpected transfer to the Washington Wizards. With just days left before the trade deadline, the anticipation for additional trades remains intense. Recent developments, particularly regarding Keon Ellis and De’Andre Hunter, keep the excitement alive.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, a significant trade has emerged involving the Cleveland Cavaliers and Sacramento Kings. De’Andre Hunter is headed to the Kings in exchange for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis. This three-team trade also allows the Chicago Bulls to acquire Kings forward Dario Saric, complemented by the addition of two second-round draft picks.
This latest shift leaves the Los Angeles Lakers in a challenging position as they search for solutions within a constricted trade market, having missed the chance to acquire both promising players.
“No Hunter or Ellis for the Lakers. 5 days left, and the market for what LA wants is very limited. The Lakers are one of the most intriguing teams to watch before the trade deadline, especially since they need a key addition on the wing to seriously contend for a title,” shared analyst Brett Siegel.
No Hunter or Ellis for the Lakers.
5 days left, and the market for what LA wants is very limited.
The Lakers are one of the most interesting teams to watch before the trade deadline, especially since they need a key addition on the wing to compete for a title. https://t.co/SlobCIylZK
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) February 1, 2026
As the deadline approaches, excitement is palpable. Fans closely monitor updates regarding the Lakers’ efforts in securing a pivotal player for their playoff push.
Why the Lakers Didn’t Acquire Hunter?
Rumors surrounding the Lakers’ interest in Hunter have circulated for some time. However, the recent trade relocating Hunter to the Sacramento Kings has brought such discussions to a halt. Fans now wonder why the Lakers opted not to finalize a deal for Hunter. Lakers insider Anthony F. Irwin provided some clarity on the unfolding situation.
“It became clear over the course of yesterday (as I mentioned on the show) that the Lakers had lost interest in Hunter, and last night I was told the deal had been dead for a little while,” Irwin noted in a recent dispatch on X (formerly Twitter).
It became pretty clear over the course of yesterday (as I mentioned on the show) that the Lakers had lost interest in Hunter and last night I was told the deal had been dead for a little while. https://t.co/8UZII7zhqY
— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA) February 1, 2026
The Lakers currently sit in sixth place in the Western Conference, boasting a record of 29 wins and 18 losses. Looking ahead, their next challenge comes against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
