NBA writer makes underappreciated case for Pistons star Cade Cunningham

Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham averaged career highs in points (22.7) and assists (7.5) last season, showing he’s on the path to stardom. Still, he ranked low on ESPN’s top 100 list.

When the results came out, many fans and analysts were outraged by Cunningham’s ranking. When he was ranked No. 67, some began to claim that he might be one of the most underrated players in the NBA.

One of those who thinks Cunningham is underrated is CBS Sports writer Sam Quinn. He took to social media to explain how poor the young guard’s conditions were, proving just how impressive his numbers really are.

What makes Cunningham’s 2024 season even more impressive is the fact that it was essentially his second year on the court in the NBA. He played just twelve games in 2023 before suffering an injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Luckily for the Pistons, the former No. 1 pick didn’t let his trajectory be derailed.

By the end of this season, Cunningham’s placement could look even more egregious. Despite all the changes the Pistons made this summer, the 23-year-old has been frequently mentioned as a possible breakout candidate in 2025.

First of all, Detroit brought in a new head coach in JB Bickerstaff. Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell were both All-Star players during his time with the Cavaliers, so he has a proven track record with promising guards. He will likely aim to add Cunningham to the roster in the near future.

In addition to the coaching change, the Pistons have also addressed their spacing issues. Trajan Langdon brought in several players who can clear the field, giving Cunningham more room to maneuver.

The conditions for Cunningham’s path to fame are there. If he makes the jump, he will certainly not be overlooked in the next top 100 rankings.