Cavs Newcomer De’Andre Hunter Practices, Expected To Make Debut On Monday

February 9, 2025

It appears the wait is over. And for the Cavaliers, it wasn’t even that long of a wait.

That’s right — newcomer De’Andre Hunter is expected to make his debut with the NBA-leading Cavs in Monday’s home against the Minnesota Timberwolves, as first relayed by Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com.

Hunter was acquired in a deal at the NBA trade deadline, which sent forward Georges Niang, guard Caris LeVert and multiple second-round picks and a pick swap to the Atlanta Hawks.

Hunter practiced on Sunday before meeting with reporters.

De’Andre Hunter is here. #Cavs pic.twitter.com/QWAXELjRnX

— Spencer Davies (@SpinDavies) February 9, 2025

The Cavaliers (42-10) already entered Sunday with the NBA’s best record.

“The acquisition of De’Andre Hunter and the potential impact a player of this caliber can bring to Cleveland is immeasurable,” president of basketball operations Koby Altman said in a statement. “His defensive versatility, in addition to his ability to make shots from the perimeter strengthens our overall depth to an elite level.”

While losing LeVert and Niang was at first emotionally difficult in the locker room, this trade was truly a no-brainer. Hunter is the type of wing who could push the Cavaliers to a whole new level.

Yes, even higher than they’ve already achieved.

Georges Niang gets start, finishes with 16 points on 6-10 shooting (4-7 on 3s), 6 rebounds in Hawks debut, an easy road win over Wizards. Caris LeVert 9 pts, 3 rebounds.

— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) February 9, 2025

“We were presented with a great opportunity with this trade, one that was beneficial for the short- and long-term future of this franchise,” Altman added. “While it’s always difficult to part ways with players who have meant so much to our success, we believe De’Andre, at 27 years old, aligns with our long-term vision of sustainable success and ultimately competing for championships.”