De’Andre Hunter Emerges as Top Sixth Man of the Year Contender

ATLANTA, Ga. — De'Andre Hunter, the Atlanta Hawks‘ versatile forward, has emerged as a leading candidate for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award, thanks to his stellar performance off the bench this season. Hunter, who transitioned to a reserve role under Head Coach Quin Snyder, has been a key contributor to the Hawks’ success, averaging 20 points per game while shooting 43% from three-point range and 86% from the free-throw line.

Hunter’s offensive explosion has been a revelation for the Hawks, particularly during a 16-game stretch from November 27 to January 1, where he scored 15 or more points in each contest. This surge in production has not only solidified his role as a reliable scorer but also earned him widespread recognition as one of the league’s top bench players. His ability to maintain efficiency while playing fewer minutes has been crucial in preserving his health and maximizing his impact on the court.

“He’s bought into what we’re doing,” said Hawks Head Coach Quin Snyder after a recent win over the Miami Heat. “His recognition of where those places are, what times in the game where he can be even more aggressive, has been key. He doesn’t hesitate right now, and his willingness to shoot threes and attack the rim has unlocked a new level of his game.”

Hunter’s primary competition for the Sixth Man of the Year award is Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard, who has also been instrumental off the bench. Pritchard is averaging 15.6 points and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 43% from beyond the arc. The Celtics’ strong team record (27-10) gives Pritchard an edge in the eyes of many analysts, but Hunter’s individual impact on the Hawks’ success cannot be overlooked.

Despite the Hawks’ injury-plagued roster, which has seen key players like Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu miss significant time, Hunter has consistently delivered. His ability to adapt to his new role and thrive in high-pressure situations has been a bright spot for the team. On December 19, Hunter made headlines with a thunderous dunk over San Antonio Spurs‘ Defensive Player of the Year candidate Victor Wembanyama, further cementing his status as a rising star.

As the season progresses, Hunter’s health and consistency will be critical in his pursuit of the Sixth Man of the Year award. If he continues to perform at this level, he could become the first Hawks player to win the award since Jamal Crawford in 2010. With Pritchard and other contenders like Amen Thompson and Malik Beasley also in the mix, the race for the award promises to be one of the most closely watched storylines of the NBA season.