Cade Cunningham's impressive season sparks Pistons' revival

Cade Cunningham is shining bright this season, putting up career-high numbers in every category with 23.3 points, 8.8 assists, 7.3 rebounds, and shooting an impressive 37.1% from three-point range. His all-around game sets him apart as he joins a select group of players averaging over 23 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds, a club that includes the likes of Kia MVPs Nikola Jokić and LeBron James.

Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff highly regarded Cade Cunningham heading into the season.

“The sky is the limit for where he’s going to be able to go,” Bickerstaff said this summer. “I think he’s a stud, I don’t think there’s a lot he can’t do on the basketball floor.”

So far, Cunningham has delivered, propelling the Pistons to a much-improved start in the 2024-25 season. Last year, Detroit didn’t earn its seventh win until February 7. Through just 16 games this season,  they stand at 7-9, holding onto a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference — and Cunningham’s brilliance is a major reason why.

The 2024-25 campaign has also seen Cunningham notch multiple triple-doubles. After recording just two over his first three seasons, Cunningham has already racked up four this season — all in November. Three came in consecutive games, including a 20-point, 10-rebound, and 10-assist effort against the Charlotte Hornets on November 6. Though Detroit fell short in that contest due to a Brandon Miller

buzzer-beating tip-in

, Cunningham’s all-around performance stood out.

Tonight, the two teams face off again on NBA TV (7 ET) when Cunningham and the Pistons take on the Hornets on the road.