Cleveland Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter made an impactful debut for the 2025-26 season during the Cavaliers’ home opener against the Milwaukee Bucks, helping secure a 118-113 victory. Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson expressed his appreciation for Hunter’s contribution, particularly highlighting his size and effectiveness on the boards. “If he doesn’t play, do you win that game? That’s probably up in the air. He was huge, I thought,” Atkinson remarked.
Hunter recorded four rebounds—although only one was offensive—his presence in the paint was significant, disrupting opposing players and positioning himself effectively, showcasing an area of improvement the team has emphasized for him this season. In addition to his rebounding, Hunter contributed 16 points and two assists in 27 minutes on the floor. His offensive game shone through with impressive mid-range pull-up shots and a timely three-pointer that helped ignite the team’s momentum at the start of the fourth quarter, courtesy of a pass from teammate Donovan Mitchell.
Mitchell praised Hunter’s efficiency and aggressiveness, noting, “Obviously, there were certain shots he turned down we wish he didn’t. But the fact that he’s continued to be aggressive, getting on the offensive rebounds, being a pest defensively, being able to switch 1-5 at the end. That’s what he brings to us.”
Evan Mobley also acknowledged Hunter’s versatility, stating, “Just another option offensively. Defensively, to have a big guy out there like that, especially against Giannis [Antetokounmpo] and the team that we played. So him being out there is definitely a different look.”
Hunter’s assertiveness in applying ball pressure aligns with the Cavaliers’ strategy to elevate their defensive intensity, despite facing early-season challenges with foul trouble. As the team’s newly appointed starting small forward, his performance suggests a promising continuation of his preseason momentum, marking a positive development for the Cavaliers as they integrate his skills into their roster. With Hunter back in the lineup, the Cavaliers are optimistic about building on this solid foundation for the remainder of the season.