Cade Cunningham, Pistons Agree to Five-Year Extension – Basketball Insider

The Detroit Pistons wasted no time in giving Cade Cunningham a contract extension. The deal is reportedly for five years and $224 million to Rose's name. Cunningham was arguably a bright spot for Detroit last season as the team continued to struggle in the rebuilding phase. He is coming off a season that many consider his best season even though the team is struggling. The Pistons finished with a winning record of 14-68 and were the last team in the Eastern Conference. Still, Cade Cunningham is the building block of their future, and this new deal proves how much faith they have in the young guard.

Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons Agree to Five-Year, $224 Million Contract Extension

Cade Cunningham's Power

Cunningham was the first pick for a reason in the 2021 NBA Draft. He was highly touted coming out of Texas and appears to have a bright future in the NBA, even after three seasons with a less-than-stellar Detroit team. In three seasons, Cunningham averaged 20.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. He also recorded 1.0 steals per game and currently has a player efficiency rating of 15.0.

Remember, Cunningham is the head of the offense on a team that is currently rebuilding and was the worst team in the Eastern Conference last year. Some of his numbers will be better if he is on a better team. It's also important to remember that Cunningham is only 22 years old. As a result, he will mature and continue to be comfortable in the NBA landscape. In the grand scheme of things, Cade Cunningham has a very bright future. As for the Pistons as a team, right now it's hard to say if they can climb out of NBA purgatory anytime soon.

Can the Detroit Pistons Return to Relevancy Sooner Than Late?

The Pistons haven't made the postseason since they had Blake Griffin. That will show how desperate the team and fan base are for some kind of success. Cade Cunningham is a solid core piece for the future. However, surrounding him with the right talent is easier said than done. Detroit has been involved in a number of picks over the past few years. Ausar Thompson and Jaden Ivey are strong. However, players like Killian Hayes, Luka Garza, and Sekou Doumbouya have never sought a union. All in all, the Pistons must continue to rebuild smartly around Cade Cunningham, especially after making a long-term commitment to him.