Cade Cunningham’s Ascent: Can the Pistons Star Silence Doubts and Contend for MVP?
The Detroit Pistons’ remarkable turnaround last season wasn’t just a surprise; it was a Cade Cunningham-fueled revolution. From a team languishing in mediocrity to a playoff contender with 44 wins, Cunningham’s leap into superstardom was the driving force. But the question now isn’t whether he can be great – he’s proven that – it’s whether he can elevate the Pistons to true championship contention and, ultimately, enter the MVP conversation. His journey, however, hinges on addressing one glaring weakness: turnovers.
From Rising Star to All-NBA Talent
Cunningham’s first All-Star and All-NBA selections were well-deserved, backed by impressive statistics: 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game on solid 46.9% shooting. Beyond the numbers, it was the way he played that captivated fans and analysts alike. His game-winning bank shot over Bam Adebayo, immortalized on a national broadcast, wasn’t just a clutch moment; it was a statement. The Pistons, and Cunningham, had arrived. As president Trajan Langdon noted, Cunningham finally “driven winning” for the franchise – the hardest step for any young star to take.
The Playoff Test and the MVP Ceiling
While his playoff performance against the Knicks showed flashes of brilliance (averaging 25.0 points, 8.7 assists, and 8.3 rebounds), it also exposed areas for refinement. More importantly, it highlighted the need for sustained excellence. ESPN currently ranks Cunningham as the 12th-best player in the league, a testament to his progress, but a clear indication of the work still ahead. If the Pistons can surpass 50 wins in the 2025-26 season, Cunningham will be firmly positioned as a legitimate MVP candidate. That leap, however, is inextricably linked to solving his turnover problem.
The Turnover Conundrum: A Harden Parallel?
Cunningham averaged a career-high 4.4 turnovers last season, second only to Trae Young. This isn’t simply a matter of carelessness; it’s a byproduct of his high usage rate (33.2%). This echoes the struggles of James Harden during his peak years with the Houston Rockets, where a similar reliance on individual playmaking led to a high volume of turnovers. The Pistons need to find ways to alleviate some of Cunningham’s ball-handling responsibilities, not to stifle his creativity, but to unlock his full potential.
Jaden Ivey’s Return: A Key to Unlocking Efficiency
The return of Jaden Ivey from a broken leg is crucial. A healthy and effective Ivey can share the playmaking burden, forcing defenses to respect more than just Cunningham. This will open up passing lanes and reduce the pressure on Cunningham to do everything himself. Improving his assist-to-turnover ratio isn’t just about individual improvement; it’s about building a more balanced and efficient offense.
Beyond Cunningham: Pistons’ Supporting Cast Questions
Cunningham’s success isn’t a solo endeavor. The Pistons’ front office faces several key questions regarding the supporting cast. Can Tobias Harris provide consistent scoring in his 15th season? Is Jalen Duren poised for an All-Star leap? Can Caris LeVert fill the void left by key departures? These are all critical pieces of the puzzle. The team’s depth, particularly the development of rookies like Ron Holland and two-way prospects, will also be essential for navigating the long NBA season. The official NBA Pistons website provides detailed player profiles and team updates.
The Future is Bright, But Execution is Key
Cade Cunningham has undeniably transformed the Detroit Pistons. He’s a legitimate star with the potential to become one of the league’s best. However, his path to MVP contention, and the Pistons’ path to championship contention, hinges on addressing his turnover issues and building a cohesive, well-rounded team around him. The 2025-26 season isn’t just about Cunningham’s individual performance; it’s about whether he can lead the Pistons to a new era of sustained success. What impact will the new additions have on the team’s overall performance? Share your predictions in the comments below!
