This week, Cade Cunningham openly proclaimed himself the best American player in the NBA during a featured GQ article. While many athletes often express similar confidence, Cunningham’s declaration places a sharp spotlight on his candid self-assessment. Though multiple contenders believe they are the top player, Cunningham’s statement is notable because few voices have historically elevated him to that status.
Cunningham has consistently appeared in MVP discussions, ranking fourth on NBA.com’s latest list and third in ESPN’s recent survey of 100 basketball media experts, trailing only Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. Despite being third in many rankings, including FanDuel odds at +700, Cunningham’s position seems understated compared to his current performance and the Pistons’ success.
Detroit’s Emergence as the NBA’s Leading Team
The Detroit Pistons boast the league’s best record entering Friday’s games, narrowly ahead of Oklahoma City at 41-13. Cunningham stands as Detroit’s clear standout, consistently carrying the team’s offense and leadership. In a recent dominant win against the New York Knicks—one of the East’s top contenders—Cunningham produced an impressive 42 points, 13 assists, eight rebounds, two blocks, and a steal, all without key teammates Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart.
Detroit has outmatched the Knicks decisively in their three meetings this season, winning by a combined 84 points and demonstrating Cunningham’s significant impact on the court. His plus-44 impact over 89 minutes against the Knicks exemplifies his influence on both ends of the floor.
Cunningham’s Statistical Case Among MVPs
Cunningham and Nikola Jokic stand as the only players averaging at least 23 points and nine assists each game, with Cunningham leading the league in assists at 9.6 per contest. His plus-minus of 9.1 per game more than doubles Jokic’s 4.3, underscoring his value to Detroit’s success. This comparison does not diminish Jokic’s or Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP credentials, both of which remain strong. Instead, it highlights that Cunningham’s case deserves equal consideration in the conversation.
The narrative surrounding the Pistons’ rise adds critical context to Cunningham’s individual achievements. Three seasons ago, Detroit was the NBA’s worst team, including a record 28-game losing streak just two years ago. Many questioned whether Cunningham could evolve into a franchise leader. The dramatic transformation he has led—from historic losses to holding the league’s top spot—proves his growth and influence.
Transformation Under Cunningham’s Leadership
The Pistons remarkably tripled their win total from the prior season to last year, a first in NBA history. Their status has only improved since, reaching the best record this season without major roster additions, signifying Cunningham’s development as a pivotal force. He has refined his shooting, especially off the dribble, with his step-back three-point shot now connecting at an efficient 44%, per NBA.com data.
More broadly, Cunningham’s off-the-dribble three-point shooting percentage has risen from 31% to 35%. Though still a modest volume, the improved accuracy forces defenders to extend their coverage, allowing Cunningham to exploit driving lanes effectively—he ranks third in points scored via drives. His ability to create space and attack the basket makes him difficult to contain.
Comparing Cunningham’s Defense and Overall Impact
While his offensive contributions are clear, Cunningham’s defense offers a key distinction compared to peers like Luka Doncic, where defensive ability is less pronounced. Cunningham contributes on both ends of the floor, reinforcing his case for MVP consideration. Although Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic maintain strong, unimpeachable claims, Cunningham rightfully belongs in discussions alongside them, rather than trailing noticeably.
Why Cunningham’s Story Resonates in MVP Debates
Beyond statistics, the story behind Cunningham’s journey holds weight in MVP voting. Rapidly turning a struggling franchise into the league’s top team, his leadership is undeniable. When Cunningham is on the floor, the Pistons’ offense ranks fourth in the NBA, according to Cleaning the Glass. Conversely, Detroit’s offense falls to the bottom tier when he sits. No other player—whether Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, or prominent teammates like Jalen Brunson and Jaylen Brown—carries such a heavy burden of offensive creation.
Though postseason results remain to be seen, with questions about Detroit’s shooting depth, the MVP award reflects regular-season excellence. Cunningham’s contributions and the Pistons’ ascendance merit greater recognition than they currently receive. It is overdue for Cade Cunningham’s MVP buzz to gain the respect and attention his performance commands.
“Say what you want, but story matters in MVP voting. And right now, there is no better story than how quickly Cunningham has turned the cellar-dwelling Pistons into, by record, the best team in the league.” ?Anonymous, NBA Analyst
