Dennis Schroder is already looking at his move from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Charlotte Hornets as a positive step. After spending only half a season in Cleveland, the veteran guard believes his new destination will give him a better chance to play the way he is accustomed to.

The Cavaliers traded Schroder and cash to Charlotte for Tre Mann, ending a short stint that saw the 32-year-old appear in 30 games. He averaged 8.2 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists while shooting 40.1% from the field and 29% from three.

Speaking to Braunschweiger Zeitung, Schroder explained why the change could benefit him.

“When you have two legends in your position who bring the ball up the court and play a lot of isolation, then it’s just difficult,” he said, referring to Donovan Mitchell and James Harden.

Schroder described his role in Cleveland as “extremely difficult” because both stars handled much of the offense. That left fewer opportunities for a guard whose strengths are creating with the ball, pushing the pace and running an offense.

“I think it’s a better situation for me from a sporting perspective,” Schroder said to Braunschweiger Zeitung, “I think it’s good for me because I can play there the way I normally play.”

The comments do not appear to reflect bitterness toward Cleveland. Schroder still viewed the Cavaliers’ run to the Eastern Conference Finals positively, calling the experience “cool.” He also revealed that he had known about the possibility of the trade for roughly a month.

Charlotte should provide a more natural role. Schroder is expected to operate primarily as Coby White’s backup, giving the Hornets an experienced ball-handler while their younger guards develop. He also has familiarity with coach Charles Lee and president Jeff Peterson from their Atlanta days.

The move will mark Schroder’s 12th NBA franchise. Yet he remains unfazed by another change, describing the frequent movement simply as “the business.” More importantly, Charlotte gives him another opportunity to play a style closer to the one that has defined his career.

Why the Cavaliers moved on from Schroder beyond his fit

Cleveland’s decision was not only about finding a better basketball fit. The trade also gave the Cavaliers meaningful financial flexibility as they reshape the roster around their established stars.

Moving Schroder saved Cleveland roughly $6.8 million and created additional room below the NBA’s apron thresholds. That matters with the Cavaliers still working on a new contract for James Harden and exploring another addition to the roster.

The move also opened a path toward pursuing restricted free agent Peyton Watson, while Jonathan Kuminga remains another potential target. Cleveland had been looking for ways to create the financial room necessary for another significant offseason move.

Rookie Meleek Thomas also gives the Cavaliers another young option in the backcourt. Thomas averaged 27 points during Summer League and showed enough playmaking ability to handle point-guard responsibilities.

With Donovan Mitchell and Harden established as the starting backcourt, Cleveland also has Craig Porter Jr. and Tyrese Proctor among its younger guards.

Schroder’s departure therefore clears salary while leaving the Cavaliers with enough backcourt depth to continue pursuing their larger roster goals.

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Written by

Nilendu Brahma

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi