Hunt is now entering his third season in the AFL after representing Australia at rugby league and also turning his hand to rugby union.
After some initial struggles in defence in 2011, Gold Coast coach Guy McKenna switched Hunt to the midfield in 2012 – with instant results.
The 26-year-old looked at home, averaging 15 disposals per game and providing physical support for skipper Gary Ablett with his bigger body.
But when the Suns run out against St Kilda at Metricon Stadium on Saturday, don't be surprised if Hunt is playing a run-with role.
McKenna flagged the idea early in the pre-season and then implemented it in the final hit-out against Melbourne.
On that occasion Hunt had the job on Nathan Jones, and kept the influential Demon quiet.
"That was probably the only dress rehearsal in the pre-season for me," Hunt said.
"I watched a bit of footage of him during the week, did a bit of work with the coaches and was lucky enough to be able to execute.
"It's only NAB Cup … if that role or any of those roles pop up, hopefully I can do it as good as that, if not better."
Hunt said he had no specific expectations for 2013, other than to continue improving.
He has dropped another 6kg from his frame to tip the scales at 88kg and has also improved his aerobic conditioning.
Hunt said in any run-with role he would be trying to win the ball rather than simply negate his opponent.
"Bluey (McKenna) told me your greatest strength is your strength. The best way you can stop them is by winning the ball.
"When I played against Jones, that was the case at the stoppages and I think that'll be the case for me during the year.
"Last year you just run around and chase the footy but it's pretty cool getting a designed role for yourself, especially if you can execute.
"I've always been about doing the best for your team, whether that was league or union, I just went out there and did what the coach asked me.
"I don't know if I'm going to have a better year this year than last year, but I definitely want to, so we'll just have to wait and see."
Karmichael Hunt is a midfielder in NAB AFL Fantasy. He averaged 53 points in 2012. Register your team at our AFL Fantasy Hub.
Michael Whiting covers Gold Coast news for AFL.com.au. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_mikewhiting
