The Detroit Pistons aren’t just rebuilding anymore they're way past that, they’re ready to break through. And the engine driving it all is none other than Cade Cunningham. Now entering the new season with momentum and his best year to date, Cunningham looks more than ready to elevate not only his game, but the Pistons’ status in the Eastern Conference.
The Star Has Already Arrived
Let’s get one thing clear: Cade Cunningham is already a superstar. Last season, he took major strides in every meaningful statistical category—upping his points, rebounds, assists, and perhaps most importantly, team wins. He finished the 2024–25 season averaging 26.1 points per game, showcasing his ability to carry an offensive load while facilitating for others.
He’s become the undeniable leader of this young Pistons squad, a voice in the locker room and the one his teammates look to when games are on the line. What’s even more impressive is the maturity he brings to the role. At just 24, Cunningham leads with poise and purpose beyond his years, commanding respect on both ends of the court.
What’s Next in His Game?
If there’s a “next leap” for Cunningham, it comes down to two key areas: increasing his free throw attempts and boosting his three-point shooting efficiency. Again, neither was a weakness. He took a healthy 370 free throws last season, up from 274 the year before, and hit threes at a solid 35% clip. But those numbers still have room to grow.
If he gets to the line even more consistently and raises that three-point percentage closer to 38–40%, we’re suddenly talking about a player who could average close to 30 points per game. Combine that with 8-9 assists and 5–6 rebounds per night, and the MVP case practically writes itself—especially if Detroit racks up wins.
A Team That’s Ready to Rise With Him
One of the most promising parts of the Pistons’ outlook is the roster around Cunningham. Detroit didn’t make major splashes in the offseason, and frankly, they didn’t need to. They’ve already assembled a core filled with young, high-upside talent that’s just starting to gel.
Jaden Ivey is expected to return fully healthy, and his backcourt chemistry with Cunningham will be crucial to the team’s spacing and pace. Jalen Duren continues to blossom into a dominant interior presence, and Ausar Thompson’s defensive versatility and energy are rare traits in a second-year player. With another year of experience under their belt and more cohesion within the group, this team could quickly shift from “up-and-coming” to “dangerous contender.”
Playoff-Proven Potential
Let’s not forget how Detroit ended last season. Pushed the Knicks to six games in a gritty first-round series. And those same Knicks made it all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals. That series showed the Pistons weren’t just a fun young team, they were legit. They had composure, toughness, and a star capable of going toe-to-toe with the league’s best.
If they stay healthy, continue developing, and stack regular season wins, they could finish top three in the East. And if that happens, Cade Cunningham won’t just be in the MVP conversation, he’ll be leading it.
Final Thoughts
Cade Cunningham is already one of the best young players in the league, but the leap from “star” to “superstar MVP candidate” is within reach. The numbers are trending up. The leadership is already there. The team is rising with him.
All that’s left is for him to tighten a few areas, stay aggressive, and keep winning. If that happens, the Detroit Pistons might just become the biggest surprise of the season—and Cade Cunningham could be the one holding the MVP trophy when it’s all said and done.