Cade Cunningham Powers Pistons’ Playoff Resurgence

Cade Cunningham's breakout 2024-25 season led the Detroit Pistons to their first playoff win since 2008 and a 30-game improvement in the standings. Cunningham averaged 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game, earning both his first All-Star and All-NBA Third Team honors. His All-NBA selection triggered the 'Rose Rule,' raising his five-year rookie extension from $224 million to $269 million. While the Pistons exited in the first playoff round, Cunningham's contract increase will reduce Detroit's salary cap flexibility and may impact their ability to pursue key free agents. The team is expected to continue building around Cunningham through the NBA Draft and free agency. His All-NBA nod marks the Pistons' most significant individual accolade since Blake Griffin in 2019.