The Detroit Pistons have been turning heads this 2025-26 NBA season, and much of the credit goes to their superstar guard, Cade Cunningham. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff didn't hold back in his praise for Cunningham, declaring him the frontrunner for the MVP title.
“If the season ended today, Cade Cunningham’s the MVP hands down,” Bickerstaff confidently stated on the Road Trippin’ Show. He highlighted Cunningham's critical role in the team's success, emphasizing his impact on both ends of the court.
“You talk about a guy who, on any given night, will guard the other team’s best player and still have to carry the burden that he carries on the offensive end for us,” Bickerstaff added. He praised Cunningham’s ability to elevate his teammates, allowing them to thrive alongside him.
Cunningham, the top pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, is certainly making a strong case for himself. At 24, he's averaging 25.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 9.6 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game this season. His stellar performance has propelled the Pistons to a league-best 40-13 record as they hit the All-Star break.
Historically, the MVP often comes from the team with the best record, and if the Pistons maintain their momentum, Cunningham’s chances look promising. Bickerstaff likened Cunningham’s current mindset to Neo from 'The Matrix,' saying, “Cade believes he’s the one now, and his game is translating it.”
The turnaround in Detroit has been nothing short of remarkable. Just two seasons ago, the Pistons ended with a dismal 14-68 record, including a 28-game losing streak. Fast forward to now, and they’ve become serious contenders in the East, following a solid 44-38 campaign last year.
While Cunningham and his teammates deserve the spotlight, Bickerstaff's role in this transformation cannot be overlooked. His hiring in 2024 might not have been seen as a game-changer, but his results speak volumes. Bickerstaff is now a strong candidate for Coach of the Year, and with the way things are unfolding, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him win it.
As for the MVP race, Cunningham faces stiff competition from the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Luka Doncic. Reigning MVP Gilgeous-Alexander remains a favorite, but Cunningham’s continued excellence could close the gap as the season progresses.
Cunningham and the Pistons will next hit the court against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Thursday at 7:30 PM ET. Keep an eye on this matchup as the Pistons aim to keep their impressive season rolling.