The Detroit Pistons are making waves in the NBA, largely thanks to their standout player, Cade Cunningham, who has become a key figure in their rise to the top of the Eastern Conference. Following a solid previous season, where they secured a sixth-place finish with a 44-38 record, the Pistons are now just one win away from matching that tally this year.
Cunningham, often recognized for his offensive prowess—averaging 25.3 points, 9.8 assists, and 5.8 rebounds—has garnered discussion surrounding his potential MVP candidacy. However, teammate Jalen Duren has shed light on an underappreciated aspect of Cunningham’s game: his defensive capabilities. As reported by Jeremy Otto, Duren emphasized that Cunningham excels on both ends of the court, stating, “He is a great defender, he is a great scoring player… he is a great two-way player.”
Although Cunningham’s offensive statistics steal the spotlight, his contributions on defense are equally notable. He averages around 1.5 steals and 0.9 blocks per game, complemented by a defensive rating of 109.5 and approximately four defensive rebounds each contest. Duren’s comments underscore the importance of Cunningham’s well-rounded skill set, suggesting that his defensive efforts may not receive the recognition they deserve against the backdrop of his scoring achievements.
This season, Cunningham’s blend of offensive and defensive capabilities has not only solidified his status as a critical player for the Pistons but also contributed to the team’s impressive performance, highlighting his versatility and commitment on the court. As the Pistons continue their strong campaign, the focus remains not just on Cunningham’s scoring, but on his overall impact as a two-way player.