De’Andre Hunter Embraces Fresh Start in Sacramento After Midseason Trade From Cleveland

A few days after being traded to the Sacramento Kings, De’Andre Hunter spoke calmly and candidly about the latest turn in his career. There was no bitterness in his voice, only acceptance and perspective shaped by the realities of the NBA’s business side.

Hunter’s time with the Cleveland Cavaliers lasted less than a full calendar year, but it left an impression. The 28-year-old forward described the experience as meaningful, even if it ended sooner than expected.

“It was great,” Hunter said after his first practice with Sacramento. “I enjoyed my time. I think it was a little short, but I definitely enjoyed it. It’s a business. You’ve just got to roll with the punches.”

Now, with a new locker room and a clean slate, Hunter is focused on what comes next, hoping that a fresh environment can help him rediscover the consistency that once made him a key two-way piece.

1. A Promising Fit That Never Fully Materialized

On paper, Hunter looked like an ideal addition when Cleveland acquired him last season. A versatile wing with size, shooting range, and defensive length, he appeared tailor-made to complement the Cavaliers’ core. In 70 games with the Cavs, Hunter averaged 14.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in just under 26 minutes per night. He shot 44.5 percent from the field and 35.2 percent from three-point range, solid numbers that reflected steady production. Early on, the fit seemed seamless. Hunter knocked down open shots, attacked off the dribble, and used his frame to defend multiple positions, giving Cleveland flexibility on both ends of the floor. The Cavaliers believed he could be the final piece in their starting lineup, a player capable of connecting their star guards and big men while handling tough defensive assignments.

2. Injuries and Adjustments Derail Momentum

Momentum stalled during the playoffs when Hunter broke his thumb in a series against the Indiana Pacers after a hard foul. Even when he returned to the floor, he wasn’t fully himself, struggling to regain his usual rhythm. Cleveland entered the offseason confident he would bounce back. Head coach Kenny Atkinson emphasized getting to know Hunter better, and the organization viewed him as a long-term starter heading into training camp. But the setbacks continued. After a strong camp, Hunter injured his knee in the preseason finale, putting him behind before the regular season even began. He missed the first two games and then started most of the next stretch, though consistency proved elusive. By December, both Hunter and Atkinson agreed a move to the bench might help. The shift provided a brief spark, but fluctuating minutes, changing lineups, and lingering injuries disrupted his flow. Turnovers increased, and his decision-making faltered — signs of a player still searching for stability.

3. Respect in Cleveland, Opportunity in Sacramento

Despite the uneven season, Hunter left Cleveland with the respect of teammates. Several players spoke openly about the personal connections formed during his short tenure. “I was hurt,” teammate Jaylon Tyson said when he learned about the trade. “He’s like a brother to me now. Excited for him and his new journey.” Veterans echoed that sentiment. Donovan Mitchell called Hunter “a pro’s pro,” while Jarrett Allen acknowledged how difficult it is to see a teammate depart, even in a league where transactions are routine. The consensus inside the locker room was that circumstances — not ability — shaped his struggles. Hunter’s first game with Sacramento wasn’t perfect. He finished with nine points and dealt with foul trouble in his debut against Memphis. Still, he described the atmosphere as positive and welcomed the opportunity to start fresh.