The Cavaliers would do this trade because it gives them youth and skill upside without hurting their current core. Daron Holmes II becomes a long-term frontcourt project they can develop behind their main big rotation, while Julian Strawther adds something they value highly—shooting and floor spacing from a young wing who can eventually grow into a reliable bench scorer. Dean Wade plays real minutes for them right now, so moving him only makes sense if they believe they can replace his role internally, which they can, since Cleveland already has multiple defensive forwards. This deal lets them invest in future potential while staying competitive in the present.

The Nuggets would make this move because their biggest need is forward depth that helps them in the playoffs and regular season. Dean Wade gives Denver a physical, low-usage defender who can hit open threes next to Jokic, guard bigger wings, and bring toughness in West matchups where Denver sometimes struggles on defense. Unlike trading for a star, this is a small, realistic upgrade that doesn’t disrupt their offense and directly strengthens their playoff identity. Holmes and Strawther are promising, but Denver’s window is built around winning now, so exchanging future upside for a ready-to-play role forward makes sense for their timeline and goals.