Cavaliers weigh De’Andre Hunter’s status for Wednesday’s opener at Madison Square Garden
cavs-weighing-deandre-hunter-status-for-opener
The Cleveland Cavaliers listed forward De’Andre Hunter as questionable for Wednesday night’s season opener against the New York Knicks after he sustained a right knee contusion in the preseason finale.
Hunter, 27, collided knees with a Detroit Pistons player last week and has not taken part in live drills since leaving that game at halftime. Head coach Kenny Atkinson told reporters on Monday that it is “too early” to determine whether Hunter will dress or start at Madison Square Garden.
“He did individual work today and was moving really well,” Atkinson said after practice, according to Cleveland.com. “He didn’t do any team stuff.”
Cleveland is already without guards Darius Garland and Max Strus, increasing the importance of Hunter’s availability against a Knicks roster known for its physical play on the wing. Hunter had been projected to take on a significant two-way role in the opener.
If he cannot go, Atkinson could turn to Dean Wade or rookie Jaylon Tyson. Wade offers system familiarity and floor spacing, while Tyson impressed during camp with energy and toughness, though neither matches Hunter’s defensive versatility.
Atkinson reiterated that the organization prefers a cautious approach after last season’s injury-laden finish. The Cavaliers and Knicks tip off Wednesday in what some observers view as an early look at a potential Eastern Conference finals matchup.
Source: Hoops Wire
