Before the 2021 NBA Draft Lottery, the Atlanta Hawks had their target set on selecting the two-way wing from Virginia, De’Andre Hunter. He was viewed as the next man up to continue a rebuild in Atlanta, as he possessed the potential to dominate both sides of the ball.

In two seasons with the Virginia Cavaliers, Hunter averaged 12.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game while shooting 50.9% from the floor and 41.9% from three. However, his second season was his best. The former four-star recruit accumulated several conference honors in 2019 and won the national championship.

Through the eyes of Hawks executives, they saw a young yet seasoned star who could fill in various holes across the game plan. Hunter’s size and skillset allowed him to score in any area and lock down nearly every position.

Following summer league and training camp, the coaching staff provided Hunter with quality minutes as he proved himself behind the scenes. He lived up to expectations in his rookie season, averaging 12.3 points and 4.5 boards in 63 games.

However, from that point forward, Hunter’s progression in the NBA appeared to stagnate. He missed significant amounts of time due to injury, and when he was active, he seemed to leave a minimal impact on both ends of the court. This led to trade rumors surrounding his future in Atlanta.

In October of 2022, the Hawks signed Hunter to a four-year, $90 million extension. The front office still had faith in his potential, but NBA fans worldwide questioned this decision by Atlanta. They essentially paid an unproven player who has encountered multiple health concerns.

Fast forward to 2024-25, and the decision to pay Hunter seems like less and less of a mistake. He is finally having the career season fans have anticipated for years, adding to why Atlanta has been able to defeat teams like the Celtics and Cavaliers.

In 14 games this season, Hunter is averaging 19.3 points and 4.0 rebounds per game while shooting an exceptionally high true shooting percentage of 63.4.

What makes this season different from the rest is Hunter’s role in the active rotation. Head coach Quin Snyder felt it was best to bring Hunter off the bench, especially with the development of first overall pick Zaccharie Risacher.

Now, when Hunter checks in, he’s ready to score and make an impact. He attempts excellent shots, moves off the ball, and finishes at a high rate in the paint. Defensively, Hunter’s frame gives him leverage to slide his feet and force a turnover.

Of the nine times Hunter has scored over 20 points this season, his best was in an overtime win against the Los Angeles Lakers. In 34 minutes off the bench, he posted 26 points on 9-for-15 shooting, with five made three-pointers.

The only hurdle in Hunter’s way of winning Sixth Man of the Year is injuries. He must meet the 65-game minimum to be eligible for the award. So far, he has missed 11 games, most of which are due to knee injury management.

That said, Hunter is easily having his best season since being drafted. He is playing winning basketball and is a prominent reason why the Hawks are in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.