
via Imago
Oct 25, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward De’Andre Hunter (12) shoots against Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges (0) during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images

via Imago
Oct 25, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward De’Andre Hunter (12) shoots against Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges (0) during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
“Missing piece.” That’s how one rival NBA executive described De’Andre Hunter’s potential impact on the Cleveland Cavaliers. “If he stays healthy, he could be the missing piece,” the anonymous executive told ESPN. This statement highlights Hunter’s significance to the Cavs, who have been searching for a versatile wing player to match up against the likes of the Boston Celtics and the OKC Thunder.
With Dean Wade sidelined for much of the season, the team’s struggles were evident. However, with Hunter now on board, Cleveland has added much-needed depth. Before diving into what Hunter brings to the table, let’s examine his contract details and earnings.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
How much will De’Andre Hunter earn with the Cavaliers? What was his contract with the Hawks?
After spending four seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, De’Andre Hunter found himself in a new environment when he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers on February 6, 2025. The trade came at a cost, with the Cavs giving up Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, three second-round picks, and two pick swaps to acquire him. Despite the price, Cleveland was eager to add Hunter’s skillset to their lineup.
Hunter’s versatility allows him to play both forward positions, providing the team with additional lineup flexibility. The Cavaliers are banking on his scoring and defensive abilities to complement their core trio of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland. The trade is seen as a low-risk, high-reward move, giving Cleveland a real chance at making a deep playoff run. While losing LeVert was a tough decision, his inconsistency in the playoffs made Hunter a more stable and valuable option for the team.
Regarding his contract, before joining the Cavaliers, Hunter signed a four-year, $95 million extension with the Atlanta Hawks on October 17, 2022. This deal began in the 2023-24 season, featuring a cap hit of $20.1 million and a base salary of $21.7 million for the 2024-25 season. The average annual salary for the entire contract is $22.5 million.

ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What’s your perspective on:
Is De’Andre Hunter the missing piece the Cavaliers need to finally dominate the Eastern Conference?
Have an interesting take?
Hunter has already begun making an impact on the court. In a recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers, he put up an impressive 32 points, showcasing his scoring ability. With a solid contract in place and a new team that values his role, Hunter’s financial future is secure, and he now has an opportunity to contribute to a legitimate playoff contender.
Before his extension with the Hawks, Hunter was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers with the fourth overall pick in 2019. However, he was immediately traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the Anthony Davis deal and then sent to the Atlanta Hawks. There, he signed a four-year rookie-scale contract worth $32.1 million. Over time, his performance earned him the lucrative $95 million extension. Now with the Cavaliers, all eyes are on how he will contribute moving forward.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What are De’Andre Hunter’s brand deals? What is his net worth?
Despite being a key player in the NBA, De’Andre Hunter does not appear to have any major brand deals at the moment. His focus seems to be entirely on basketball rather than building a personal brand. His Instagram presence is minimal, featuring only a couple of posts showcasing his fashion sense, with no visible paid partnerships or endorsements.
As for his net worth, reports from 2023 estimate his total earnings to be between $5 million and $10 million. The bulk of his wealth comes from his NBA contracts, as he has yet to secure significant endorsement deals. Nonetheless, with his growing reputation and new role with the Cavaliers, opportunities for sponsorships may arise in the future.
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Debate
Is De’Andre Hunter the missing piece the Cavaliers need to finally dominate the Eastern Conference?