Pistons' key question continues to revolve around Cade Cunningham

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Pistons' key question continues to revolve around Cade Cunningham originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Detroit Pistons and Cade Cunningham are magic together. When Cunningham is hot, this team excels on the court, but he can't do it all.

During the playoffs earlier this year, Cunningham played a total of 572 minutes in 14 games, averaging 40.9 minutes per game, according to research from Basketball Reference. That's just too much time on the court. It would help Cunningham, and this entire franchise, a lot if they were able to lock in real, consistent support for their NBA star.

But, overall, the Pistons look strong for the 2026-27 season. They made it to the Eastern Conference Semifinals last season, and hopes are high for them to go even further this coming season.

Detroit Pistons' main question still has to do with Cade Cunningham​

In a power ranking released by John Schuhmann on the NBA's official website, the Pistons are ranked No. 5 in the Eastern Conference. His main question is whether the load is any lighter for Cunningham. That's a great question, really.

He says that in "terms of secondary playmaking, they may have taken a step backward with the departure of (Tobias) Harris, who they could go to in the post a few times a game, even on some big possessions."

He adds that "Ausar Thompson could certainly take a step forward, but he and (Jalen) Duren (assuming he signs the offer sheet or a new deal) could remain a clunky offensive fit if neither can improve their shooting."

Ultimately, Schuhmann believes Cunningham will still have to "carry a heavy load on that end of the floor and, given the improvements elsewhere in the East, it may be hard for the Pistons to remain in the top two or three in the conference."

That's a scary thought. But, it's a reality, and finding Cunningham better support has to be a priority for the Pistons before October.

More NBA news:​

• Giannis Antetokounmpo trade didn't fix everything for the Heat
• Derrick White question takes center stage in Celtics' early rankings
• Jalen Brunson, Knicks make a statement in rankings alongside LeBron James, 76ers

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