Cavs Gain Flexibility to Pursue Big Trades at NBA Deadline

Cleveland's recent roster moves open up options for potential blockbuster deals.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 4:39pm

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The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a trade that frees up significant salary cap space, allowing them to get involved in potential blockbuster deals ahead of the NBA trade deadline. By swapping out De'Andre Hunter for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis, the Cavs have positioned themselves to potentially pursue a star player like Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers' recent trade gives them more financial flexibility to make a big splash at the trade deadline. This could allow them to get involved in high-profile trade discussions for elite players that were previously out of reach due to salary cap restrictions.

The details

The Cavaliers' trade of De'Andre Hunter for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis has put them just $13.9 million over the NBA's second apron, which restricts a team's ability to aggregate salaries in a trade. This move now makes it possible for the Cavs to potentially put together a package to acquire a superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Bucks.

  • The Cavaliers made the trade on February 1, 2026.
  • The NBA trade deadline is on February 5, 2026.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A superstar forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who has won multiple NBA MVP awards.

Darius Garland

The Cavaliers' starting point guard and one of their young core players.

Jarrett Allen

The Cavaliers' starting center and another key piece of their young roster.

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What’s next

The Cavaliers will have until the February 5th trade deadline to determine if they want to pursue a blockbuster deal for a superstar player like Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The takeaway

The Cavaliers' recent trade has given them the financial flexibility to get involved in high-profile trade discussions ahead of the NBA deadline. This could allow them to make a bold move and acquire an elite player that could significantly improve their roster and championship aspirations.