Cavaliers Depend on De’Andre Hunter in Eastern Conference Chase

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers are pinning their hopes on De'Andre Hunter as they aim for success in the Eastern Conference this season. Hunter, who enjoyed a breakout year last season, is expected to step up, especially after the team lost Ty Jerome and added veteran Lonzo Ball.

With many viewing the Cavaliers as the favorites in the East, Hunter, 27, faces the highest pressure of his career. His role is crucial as he provides depth behind the Cavaliers’ star-studded lineup, which includes Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.

Last season, Hunter shot a career-high 41 percent from beyond the arc, which helped alter the way defenses approached guarding him. In the past, defenses would leave him open when he had a driver heading towards the basket, but Hunter’s improved offensive game changed that dynamic significantly.

Although Hunter thrived, he struggled to make an impact in critical moments during his early career with the Atlanta Hawks. For the Cavaliers, his ability not only to score but to also defend bigger opponents will be key as they aim for deeper playoff runs.

Cleveland’s success this season may hinge on Hunter’s consistency when it counts. While Max Strus is slotted as the starter, the Cavaliers are betting on Hunter to deliver offensive support off the bench as the team marches toward more challenging playoff scenarios.

“We need him to maintain his performance from last season,” said Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “He has shown that he can adapt, but he needs to do it consistently to help us achieve our goals.”

With the Eastern Conference competitive landscape shifting, Hunter’s performance could be a deciding factor in the Cavaliers’ quest for the NBA Finals.