Redrafting the 2019 NBA Draft: Injury concerns and flawed greatness

It has been difficult to get a proper read on De’Andre Hunter over the years because of injuries. The flashes of brilliance are there, but it feels like every time his game starts to take shape Hunter gets hit with another injury and another extended absence. He played 63 of 82 games as a rookie and has never eclipsed that number in the years since.

So, why is Hunter still in the top 10? He doesn’t have the most impressive all-around numbers, and it’s fair to wonder if he’ll ever be able to put together a full season while carrying a starter’s workload. But let’s assume that Hunter does eventually achieve and maintain full health. Well, then it’s hard to imagine his two-way excellence staying off the broader NBA radar for long.

Hunter is well-positioned for success in Atlanta. He now has two brilliant playmakers feeding him the ball on the wing, as well as two elite vertical threats populating the frontcourt next to him. It’s the ideal environment for Hunter to focus on his strengths. He might not create much for others, but Hunter can frequently torch defenses off the catch. He can hit 3s, or venture into the mid-range game where he has displayed impressive tough-shot ability.

A strong and deliberate scorer on the wing, Hunter has legitimate No. 2 or 3 option upside if the circumstances ever favor such development. If not, he’s an excellent floor spacer who can defend the opposition’s best player every night. And that last part is what truly sets Hunter apart here: when operating at full strength, he looks like a proper defensive stopper on the wing.