Detroit Pistons: 3 Bold reasons why young Pistons will make the playoffs

The development of Cade Cunningham

Last season, Cade Cunningham averaged just under 20 points points, six rebounds, and six assists per game on 41/28/84 shooting splits. After just 12 games though, Cunningham would miss the rest of the season after undergoing season-ending surgery to repair a left tibial stress fracture.

After an encouraging rookie season, it was an unfortunate ending to what many believed would be a strong sophomore season for Cunningham. However, now that he’s healthy, the hope is that he can pick up where he left off heading into 2023-24.

The 22-year-old former 1st overall pick still has much room to grow, especially when it comes to his 3-point shooting and overall offensive efficiency. A productive offseason that included his standout performance as a member of the Team USA Select Team indicates that a new and improved Cunningham could take a league by storm next season.

And the Pistons taking a big step forward this season likely begins with Cunningham doing so first individually.