CLEVELAND — Small forward De'Andre Hunter revealed Sept. 29 during Cavaliers media day he expects to start, and he also had a conversation with coach Kenny Atkinson about it.

Max Strus , Cleveland's primary starter at small forward last season, is expected to miss a signifcant portion of the 2025-26 season after undergoing foot surgery Aug. 26. The door is open for Hunter to enter the starting lineup instead of serving as the team's sixth man.

"I feel like that's probably a role I will have," Hunter said of starting. "So that's something I'm gearing for and looking towards."

Hunter explained Atkinson asked him this offseason whether he wants to start. Hunter said he told Atkinson the answer is yes.

Hunter and Atkinson have gotten to know each other much better this offseason o

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