Tue Feb 24 01:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Cade Cunningham’s MVP Candidacy Under Scrutiny Amid Pistons’ Roster Concerns

The Story:
Yahoo Sports analyst Kevin O’Connor, along with John Fanta of NBC Sports, has ignited a debate regarding Detroit Pistons point guard Cade Cunningham’s MVP candidacy, comparing his performance metrics to that of reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA). The analysts highlight SGA’s superior scoring efficiency and overall impact, while also questioning the Pistons’ roster construction and potential playoff viability. The discussion underscores the importance of having a strong supporting cast and a reliable offensive system for a player to truly contend for an MVP title and lead a team to championship contention.

Key Points:

  • Cade Cunningham’s MVP candidacy is being compared to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA).
  • SGA has a higher true shooting percentage (67%) compared to Cunningham (56.9%).
  • SGA scores 1.2 points per pick and roll compared to Cunningham’s 0.98.
  • SGA scores 1.21 points per spot-up opportunity compared to Cunningham’s 0.89.
  • Cunningham is ranked last among the top 10 MVP candidates in true shooting percentage.
  • Analysts question whether the Pistons have a strong enough supporting cast for Cunningham to succeed in the playoffs.
  • The Oklahoma City Thunder’s roster is praised for its depth and balance, contrasting with the perceived deficiencies of the Pistons.

Critical Analysis:
The conversation surrounding Cade Cunningham’s MVP buzz, as indicated by the February 2026 context, suggests a prior wave of positive sentiment that this article now tempers. The article’s focus on statistical comparisons and roster weaknesses can be interpreted as a strategic effort to manage expectations and provide a more realistic assessment of Cunningham’s current standing. The emphasis on team construction highlights a broader NBA trend where individual brilliance is often insufficient without complementary talent.

Key Takeaways:

  • Statistical comparisons reveal areas where Cade Cunningham lags behind top MVP contenders like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
  • Team composition and supporting cast play a critical role in a player’s MVP chances and playoff success.
  • The Detroit Pistons need to address roster deficiencies to maximize Cade Cunningham’s potential.
  • Playoff performance is a key factor in evaluating a player’s true value and MVP worthiness.
  • Initial MVP buzz surrounding Cade Cunningham might have been premature, necessitating a more grounded evaluation.

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