Taking a look at whether or not Sacramento Kings forward DeAndre Hunter is getting overlooked heading into the 2026-2027 season.
The Sacramento Kings have made a variety of moves this offseason and have several young players who appear to be progressing very well, but that has left some players without the recognition and attention that they may deserve.
One player in particular who appears to be overlooked is forward DeAndre Hunter, who has been a solid player throughout his career and could be a key contributor for the Kings during the 2026 season.
During the 2025 season, Hunter was traded in the middle of the year from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Kings which gave Sacramento a player who could be solid for them on both ends.
Last season, Hunter averaged 13.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, two assists, and 0.7 steals per game. In terms of efficiency, Hunter was solid, as he shot 41.5 percent from the field, 30.5 percent from three-point range, and 86.7 percent from the free-throw line.
So, across the board, Hunter proved he can contribute and can also be relied on to knock down shots all over the floor.
It is important to note that in the two games Hunter played for the Kings in 2025, he did struggle a little bit, as he averaged 7.5 points, 1.5 rebounds, 0.5 assists, zero steals, and zero blocks per game. Hunter also did have some struggles shooting the ball as he shot 21.1 percent from the field, 22.2 percent from three, and 83.3 percent from the free-throw line.
While these stats are not great, as mentioned it was just a two game sample size and for the majority of the season Hunter was great.
Focusing on the defensive end, Hunter has a very unique ability to defend nearly every position on the floor with his 6-7 and 221 pound frame to go along with his physicality. With Hunter's versatility on the defensive end, the Kings have a lot more flexibility to switch, which could help Sacramento out in many cases.
Additionally, Hunter is entering his ninth NBA season, which gives him a lot of experience and is something he can use to continue adding elements to his game, but also something he can use to help mentor the young talent that the Kings have all across this rostOverall, Hunter is a player who has the ability to contribute in nearly every way the Kings need him to and if he can use his defensive prowess, NBA experience, and solid offensive skill set to the Kings advantage he may be able to help the Kings take a key step forward in 2026.
