When the Detroit Pistons selected Cade Cunningham as the first overall pick in the 2021 draft, they aimed to secure a foundational player for the franchise’s future. Despite facing setbacks due to injury, Cunningham showcased promise during his rookie season. However, his progress was hindered when he missed a significant portion of the following year due to injury. In the current season, Cunningham has made a notable comeback, garnering attention from coaches across the league.
During a recent game against the Atlanta Hawks, although Cunningham was absent from the lineup, Hawks coach Quin Snyder commended the young guard for his exceptional skill set. Snyder highlighted Cunningham’s unique combination of size and skill, acknowledging him as a formidable player both on the court and in game footage.
Reflecting on Cunningham’s circumstances this season, Snyder emphasized the challenges young players face when sidelined by injuries. He underscored the importance of recognizing the developmental impact of missed playing time and the extensive rehabilitation process associated with injuries.
Despite recent absences from Pistons’ games, Cunningham remains on course to participate in approximately 65 games this season. Despite his setback last season, the former top draft pick continues to exhibit commendable growth. Currently, Cunningham is achieving career-high statistics in both points (22.7) and assists (7.5), indicating ongoing progress in his development as a player.
