Cade Cunningham’s impressive breakout performance this season has caught the attention of the entire NBA, with the Detroit Pistons currently holding the best record in the Eastern Conference at 25-12. His accomplishments on the court have not only earned him a spot as an All-Star starter, but they have also garnered praise from prominent figures within the league.
After the Pistons secured a thrilling 131-124 victory over the Golden State Warriors, legendary coach Steve Kerr commended Cunningham’s abilities, drawing comparisons between him and established stars like Luka Doncic and James Harden. “He’s awesome. He reminds me of Luka and James Harden,” Kerr remarked. “Just kind of a one-man offense, running everything through him. He’s a great, great player, really coming into his own.”
Kerr’s accolades carry significant weight, given his extensive experience with elite talent throughout his career, including winning championships alongside icons such as Michael Jordan and Tim Duncan, and coaching a dynasty featuring Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry. Cunningham’s emergence alongside such high praise indicates his potential to become a dominant force in the league.
Currently, Cunningham is leading the NBA with an average of 9.7 assists per game, slightly ahead of Doncic, who follows closely at 8.7. In terms of scoring, he stands 17th in the league with an average of 25.3 points per game. This statistic positions him just behind Harden, who averages 25.4 points, while Doncic leads the league at an impressive 33.7 points per game. Although Cunningham’s scoring has not yet reached the heights of his contemporaries, he is displaying the potential to rise to that level.
What’s particularly noteworthy is how the Pistons have embraced a balanced offensive strategy, with Cunningham excelling in both passing and scoring without needing to overwhelm opposing defenses. This dynamic approach has allowed the team to maintain high offensive efficiency, showcasing the depth and potential of the Pistons’ roster.
If Cunningham continues on his current trajectory, he stands a strong chance of not only receiving MVP votes this season but potentially bringing home the prestigious award to Detroit in the coming years. His rapid development indicates that the Pistons could be on the cusp of a significant resurgence in the NBA landscape.