Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins recently stated that Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham has outperformed Luka Dončić during the current NBA season, placing Cunningham ahead of Dončić among the league’s top five players. Perkins shared this perspective amid a tumultuous year for Dončić and the Los Angeles Lakers, who remain in contention in the fiercely competitive Western Conference playoff race. Meanwhile, Cunningham’s consistent efforts have helped the Pistons rise to the top of the standings.
Why Perkins Ranks Cunningham Above Dončić
On the Road Trippin’ podcast, Perkins named Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokić as the top three players in the league, placing Cunningham at fourth and Dončić just behind him. Perkins pointed to Cunningham’s all-around game and two-way impact as key factors in this ranking.
You know why? Forget the point, he went and gave them a 40-piece all flats,
Perkins remarked.
It’s the eight rebounds, it’s the 13 assists, and Cade Cunningham plays both sides of the basketball.
This explanation highlights Cunningham’s versatility and ability to contribute across the board, rather than focusing solely on scoring.
Cunningham’s Role in Detroit’s Success Amid Lakers’ Struggles
Cunningham is currently in the first year of a five-year, $269 million contract, reflecting the Pistons’ belief in his long-term potential. Detroit has exceeded preseason expectations by becoming one of the best teams in the NBA so far, a performance partly fueled by Cunningham’s leadership on the court.
While the Eastern Conference is generally regarded as less competitive than the Western Conference, Detroit’s record remains notable. Conversely, the Lakers have experienced a turbulent season plagued by inconsistency, which has affected Dončić’s ability to elevate his team’s standing despite his individual talent.
Comparing Playing Styles and Team Impact
Perkins contrasted Cunningham and Dončić based on their playing styles and influence on their teams. Cunningham is viewed as a true two-way player, positively impacting both offense and defense. Dončić, meanwhile, is known for his offensive brilliance and is considered one of the best individual offensive players in NBA history. Perkins suggests that Cunningham’s all-around contributions have given him an edge this season, especially as the Pistons lead their conference.
Despite Dončić’s impressive statistics, the Lakers’ struggles have diminished his case for being counted among the very best players in the league right now. Perkins’s ranking reflects the balance between individual excellence and team success in evaluating players.
Implications for MVP Discussions and Future Seasons
If the Pistons maintain their strong record and finish atop the Eastern Conference, Cunningham is likely to receive increased recognition for his efforts this season. Meanwhile, Dončić’s continued brilliance may ensure he remains a fan favorite and a perennial MVP contender, particularly if the Lakers improve their foundation in the coming years.
Perkins’s comments underline ongoing debates in the NBA around individual versus team impact, with this season offering a compelling case study in the Luka Dončić vs Cade Cunningham comparison. While Cunningham is earning deserved credit now, the dynamics could shift again next season depending on how both players and their teams perform.
Kendrick Perkins says Cade Cunningham has just leapfrogged Luka Dončić into the top 5 players in the NBA
“You know why? Forget the point he went and gave them a 40 piece all flats. It’s the 8 rebounds, it’s the 13 assist and Cade Cunningham plays both sides of the basketball”… pic.twitter.com/Sd01Yi6MQ1
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) February 20, 2026
