This season, Cade Cunningham is transforming the Detroit Pistons into serious contenders, showcasing why he is a leading figure in the MVP conversation. The former first overall draft pick is averaging 24 points per game while steering Detroit to the top spot in the Eastern Conference, highlighting a shift from potential to proven impact. Shaquille O’Neal recently acknowledged Cunningham’s rise, naming him among the strongest MVP candidates due to his comprehensive skill set and leadership.
Pistons’ Renewed Ambition Following Playoff Setback
Detroit’s renewed vigor follows their disappointing first-round playoff loss to the New York Knicks last season, which left the franchise eager to prove themselves. Instead of discouraging the team, the defeat appears to have fueled their determination, with Cunningham using the experience as motivation. His stellar performances against New York this season illustrate his drive, helping to elevate the Pistons as a formidable force within a competitive Eastern Conference.
Shaquille O’Neal Highlights Cunningham’s Complete Skill Set
On the latest episode of Inside the NBA, Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal praised Cade Cunningham’s all-around game, calling it rare and exceptional for a player so young. O’Neal emphasized Cunningham’s consistency and poise on the court, qualities he compares to his own championship-caliber hunger during his prime years.
“I watched him play the other day, and he has a complete game. He does everything right. Not mostly right. He does everything right all the time with the way he plays, his pace, how he’s playing,”
stated Shaquille O’Neal, Hall of Famer.
Team’s Championship Mentality Fuels Performance
O’Neal also pointed out that the Pistons exhibit an unmistakable focus this season, carrying the confidence of a team on a mission. The group appears motivated by their previous shortcomings and determined to go further this time.
“They got that look, Kenny. You know the look I’m talking about. ‘We’re on a mission this year.’ They thought they could do something last year and they fell short. Nobody expected the Pistons to be where they are right now,”
Shaquille O’Neal added.
Growing Respect and Confidence Beyond Just Individual Stats
When a respected voice like Shaquille O’Neal ranks Cunningham prominently among MVP candidates, it signals the broader NBA community’s recognition of his impact. Cunningham’s leadership extends beyond scoring; his control and maturity on the floor resemble those of experienced contenders and have uplifted the entire Pistons roster. This collective mindset has shifted Detroit away from being seen solely as a regular-season story to a team anticipating deep playoff runs.
Eastern Conference Looks Unprepared for Detroit’s Momentum
As Detroit continues to dominate, rival Eastern Conference teams—including the Knicks, Celtics, Cavaliers, and Raptors—appear unlikely to match the Pistons’ intensity and cohesion. With Cunningham setting the tone, Detroit is transitioning from chasing respect to pursuing championship glory. This evolution indicates that the Pistons, led by their emerging star, could reshape the power balance in the East as the season progresses.
"[Cade] does everything right. Not mostly right, he does everything right all the time."@SHAQ discusses why he thinks Cade Cunningham should be MVP 👀
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— ESPN (@espn) February 27, 2026
