Cade Cunningham has had a bit of a rocky road with the Detroit Pistons, due to missing most of last season due to injury. But, that’s all behind him now, and he’s making franchise history. It’s a bright light in the Pistons’ difficult season, which has seen more than 50 losses so far. But, I’m a firm believer in the Pistons and new head coach Monty Williams, so I’m always happy to deliver good news about the Detroit team.
Pistons’ Cade Cunningham is a Star
Cunningham has made franchise history against the Charlotte Hornets. Early on in the game, which took place on Monday (March 11), Cunningham hit 1,200 points and 400 assists on the season. He hit that mark in 54 games, and that enabled Cunningham to set a new Pistons record for the fastest to reach those numbers in a season. Before, the legendary Isaiah Thomas held the record at 55 games during the 1984-85 season.
Cunningham helped pull the Pistons to an important win over the Hornets. During his time on the court, he posted a stat line of 22 points, six rebounds and eight assists. He wasn’t alone, though. Other Pistons players who rose to the challenge were Jalen Duren (20 points, 10 rebounds) and Simone Fontecchio (17 points, eight rebounds). Detroit won, at home, with a 114-97 victory. It’s always thrilling to see these guys win at home, because the crowd is so loyal.
Cunningham, a former No. 1 pick, is ending the season on a high note. There’s been some speculation about whether he’ll stay with the Pistons next season. For a while, it seemed in the best interest for both parties for Cunningham to move on. But, frankly, now that he’s playing so well, it would be heartbreaking to see him go. It would be like his time here was wasted due to injury, and then he would be healthy just in time to help a different team. That happens a lot in pro sports, but still. It’s not a good look.
There’s no denying that Thomas is one of the greatest players to ever play for the Detroit Pistons. The fact that Cunningham was able to beat this record is super impressive. I think the Pistons should do everything they can to keep him on the team for next season. I have a feeling Williams will do just that, too. For the season right now, Cunningham’s averages are at 22.6 PPG, 4.3 RPG and 7.5 APG. Even though the Pistons have had a down season, just think of how down it would be without those numbers from Cunningham.
The Detroit Pistons’ next game is Wednesday (March 11) against the Toronto Raptures. They play at home in Detroit. The end of the season is near, but they still have 18 games left to play. So, it’s not too late to end the season on a positive note. Hopefully they’ll do it and then look ahead to next season. There’s even been speculation about Williams moving on, but you rarely see a one-year coach in the pros. So, I hope Williams stays on and leads this team to some major victories next season.
Cade making franchise history… https://t.co/2PSU4DDAI4 pic.twitter.com/ySPs97GaFQ
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) March 11, 2024