The Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t need much help this season.
They’ve had the best record in the league for most of the year, and it hasn’t been that close.
However, even good things can get better.
That’s why they addressed the only flaw they had by going after De’Andre Hunter.
And while the sample size is pretty limited, coach Kenny Atkinson has loved what he’s seen from his new combo forward thus far.
Following the blowout win over the Orlando Magic, coach Atkinson tipped his hat to Hunter for being aggressive and not simply trying to fit in, raving about his defense and claiming that his offense was almost a bonus.
“I mean I’m so glad with how aggressive he [De’Andre Hunter] is being. He’s not just trying to fit in, he’s really come to our team with force and imposed his will on both ends—[2:42, Hunter’s fit] I mean, you saw the defense tonight. The offense is almost a bonus…. he defends 1 through 5. Those guys are valuable and he does it intelligently. He doesn’t foul, he’s in the right position, gets great contests,” Atkinson said.
Kenny Atkinson Postgame After Win vs Magic:
“[0:00] I mean I’m so glad with how aggressive he [De’Andre Hunter] is being. He’s not just trying to fit in, he’s really come to our team with force and imposed his will on both ends—[2:42, Hunter’s fit] I mean, you saw the defense… pic.twitter.com/NJZslZjiVA
— Dylan🔮🪼 (@dillybar2145__) February 26, 2025
Not many players can guard one through five and stay with their man the length of the court.
Not many players can efficiently and routinely get stops against some of the best players in the league without getting into foul trouble.
And, of course, not many players are tall and big enough to shoot over most defensive players, let alone do it at a ridiculous clip from beyond the arc.
The Atlanta Hawks’ decision to give up on Hunter was hard to fathom, even if they already had a surplus of big and athletic wings.
He’s a former top-five pick for a reason, and he’s in the midst of a career year.
Granted, injuries might always be a concern with him after struggling to stay healthy earlier in his career, but if he manages to stay on the court, he’s going to be this team’s X-Factor.
NEXT: Donovan Mitchell Gets Honest About His Season With Cavs
