De’Andre Hunter’s inability to lock down a starting role has become a quiet concern for the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to Ethan Sands on the The Wine and Gold Podcast.
Cleveland acquired Hunter at last year’s trade deadline, believing he could finally solve its long-running small forward issue, but his strongest performances have come off the bench.
He hasn’t started since December 14, even with Dean Wade dealing with a knee bruise.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson choosing not to promote Hunter into the starting lineup was seen as a signal that his reserve role may be permanent this season.
Hunter is averaging 14.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 34 games, but his efficiency has declined, shooting 43 percent from the field and 30.9 percent from three-point range.
On the same podcast, Chris Fedor said the team is puzzled by Hunter’s lack of fit with the starters.
Injuries to Dean Wade and Max Strus have forced Cleveland into awkward rotations, and Fedor questioned whether the front office may need to revisit the trade market for another small forward after all.
Central Notes: Hunter, Garland, Bulls' Injuries, I. Jackson https://t.co/4V47hvbpbh pic.twitter.com/afT77zN0pD
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) January 11, 2026
