If I use Thrill of the Hunt on a unit, will this unit enter ready when played?

No, the unit will not enter ready. When a unit is played via Thrill of the Hunt, it enters the battlefield in an exhausted state by default.

According to the rules for playing a unit (specifically Rule 811.1.c.3 and related RiftJudge FAQ #10757), playing a card from a non-hand zone—such as from Banishment—follows the same standard rules as playing a unit from your hand. Unless a card explicitly states that a unit enters "ready" (such as via the Accelerate keyword or a specific card effect), it will always enter exhausted.

Summary of the sequence:

  1. Thrill of the Hunt resolves.
  2. Your unit is banished (leaving the battlefield).
  3. The unit is then played to a battlefield of your choice.
  4. As it is being played, it follows the default state-entry rule and enters the battlefield exhausted.

Note: As mentioned in RiftJudge FAQ #10314, keep in mind that since the unit leaves the board to enter Banishment, any gear previously attached to it will detach and be left behind at its previous location.

FAQ #10792June 1, 2026