In the current landscape of the NBA, efficiency is paramount, leading to intense discussions among fans and analysts about the legacies of players like Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant, both of whom had career field-goal percentages of 42% and 44%, respectively. Some argue these iconic players may have been overrated in the context of modern statistical analysis.
Recent performance by Cade Cunningham has reignited this debate. On Monday, he posted an impressive 46-point, 12-rebound, and 11-assist triple-double. However, this achievement came at the cost of 45 shots, leading some to label the performance inefficient. Notably, Cunningham missed 31 shots, surpassing Bryant’s record of 30 missed shots in a single game, a dubious feat highlighted during Kobe’s infamous game against Boston in 2002.
Before diving deeper into Cunningham’s performance, it’s worth mentioning historical context. Joe Fulks, an NBA pioneer, holds the record for the most missed shots in a game with 34, demonstrating just how different the NBA landscape has evolved from the 1940s to today.
While an efficiency-focused perspective on Cunningham’s outing might not give him full credit, the context reveals a different story. Despite his shooting struggles, the Detroit Pistons secured a win over the Washington Wizards, marking their seventh consecutive victory. This victory was achieved under challenging circumstances, as the team played without several key players, including Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, and Isaiah Stewart. In this light, Cunningham’s aggressive scoring was not just opportunistic but necessary for the team’s success.
Cunningham’s resilience shone through when he returned to the court with just over nine minutes left, facing a 10-point deficit. He managed to score 19 points and provide five assists in crunch time, exemplifying his ability to lead under pressure. His aggressive play kept the Pistons competitive, further emphasizing that his misses were not reckless shooting but rather strategic attempts at scoring.
An analysis of Cunningham’s shots reveals that many were quality attempts. He consistently drove to the basket, a hallmark of his game. His shot selection primarily featured well-placed shots, especially in the critical mid-range area where he has historically performed well. While he did struggle from beyond the arc, making only 30% of his attempts prior to the game, the overall distribution of his shots suggests he was not merely hunting for personal accolades.
Overall, despite missing numerous shots, Cunningham’s performance can be viewed in a more positive light. He displayed the determination of an MVP-caliber player, refusing to back down when the team needed him the most. This fighting spirit, combined with his statistical achievements, contributed to the Pistons’ ongoing success as they rise to the top of the Eastern Conference at 9-2.