ATLANTA — As the February 12 trade deadline approaches, Atlanta Hawks forward De’Andre Hunter has once again emerged as a focal point of league-wide speculation. Following a string of high-efficiency performances through January 2026, the former fourth-overall pick is being monitored by several Eastern Conference contenders looking for defensive versatility and perimeter shooting.
Hunter, now 28, has maintained a career-high three-point percentage this season, currently hovering at 41.2%. His ability to guard multiple positions remains his primary draw, though his availability has historically been hampered by knee maintenance. As of Wednesday, February 04, 2026, league sources suggest that the Hawks’ front office is weighing the benefits of keeping Hunter for a potential Play-In push versus clearing his $24.9 million salary for the 2026-27 season.
The Trade Market Heat Index
According to insiders, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers have reportedly made inquiries regarding Hunter’s availability. Both teams are seeking “3-and-D” depth to bolster their rotations ahead of the postseason. Hunter’s current contract, which runs through the 2026-27 season, is viewed by some executives as a “fair value” asset given the rising salary cap, though his injury history remains a point of negotiation.
“De’Andre is playing some of the most disciplined basketball of his career right now,” said one Eastern Conference scout. “He’s stopped forcing the mid-range pull-up and has embraced being a knockdown spacer. That makes him much easier to plug into a championship-caliber system.”
Impact on the Hawks’ Future
For Atlanta, moving Hunter would signal a full commitment to their younger core. With the emergence of recent draft picks taking on larger wing responsibilities, Hunter has occasionally seen his minutes fluctuate. However, his veteran presence has been vital for a locker room that has struggled with defensive consistency throughout the first half of the 2025-26 campaign.
If Hunter remains in Atlanta past the 3:00 p.m. ET deadline next Thursday, he will be expected to anchor the Hawks’ perimeter defense as they face a grueling late-February schedule. For now, the Virginia product remains a Hawk, but in the volatile environment of the NBA trade season, that status could change with a single phone call.
Stay tuned to USA Daily for live updates as the 2026 NBA Trade Deadline nears.