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The Detroit Pistons’ Cade Cunningham is a front-runner for the league’s MVP award.
The NBA’s 65-game rule is getting more pushback than ever this season. The Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham is a driving force behind that wave,
The star guard didn’t come out with a statement of his own on the rule until after the Pistons’ April 8 matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.
But Cunningham’s camp and supporters had a lot to say.
On March 17, Cunningham checked out of a matchup against the Washington Wizards due to a collapsed lung. At that point, his chances of being in the running for any major accolade were fading.
Cunningham had just 61 games played on the season. He was under the minimum with just a few weeks left to play. While Cunningham’s regular season didn’t end prematurely due to the setback, he can’t reach the 65-game mark unless exceptions are made.
GettyMILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 02: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons reacts after a foul call in the first half against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on November 02, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Cade Cunningham Breaks Silence On The 65-Game Rule
Following the Pistons’ win over the Bucks, Cunningham made a statement:
“I feel a lot of different ways about it. I think what they were trying to do with it is have superstars play—not sit out just to rest—because fans pay a lot of money to watch us play games. I have a lot of respect for that,” Cunningham told reporters.
“You know, fans come to watch me play, and I want to make sure that I’m available and I give them a show whenever they come out. In that way, I respect the rule. I think it’s a good rule in that way. It’s tough for me right now. I did a lot of work to be in consideration for awards, All-NBA, and all that stuff. I’m in a tough spot. I think it will all play out how it’s supposed to play out. I’m just trying to do my best to help my team win. I’m hearing all of this stuff about exceptions and all of this stuff. I don’t know how all that stuff works. I’ll just keep doing my stuff day by day. And whenever that comes, will come. Whatever is meant to be will be.”
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – JANUARY 05: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons plays against the New York Knicks at Little Caesars Arena on January 05, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Cade Cunningham’s Season Is Worthy Of Recognition
The NBA MVP dream was likely over before Cunningham went down with his setback.
While Cunningham will likely land in the top 10 for the NBA MVP race, it was clear that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Victor Wembanyama have pulled away.
Still, Cunningham was certainly an All-NBA candidate. He landed that nod last season and would like to make it two years in a row.
However, if Cunningham can’t reach the minimum, he’ll only come up with an All-Star game appearance for 2025-2026.
The 24-year-old shot 46.1% from the field and 34.6% from three in 61 games. Cunningham produced averages of 24.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 9.9 assists throughout the year.
In his first game back on Wednesday, Cunningham produced 12 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds in the 137-111 win over the Bucks.
The Pistons will be back on the court for a matchup against the Charlotte Hornets on Friday, April 10. Cunningham’s status on that game is unclear at the moment.
Justin Grasso Justin Grasso is an NBA reporter, covering trending league news, transactions, injuries, and player developments. He is a credentialed journalist with nearly a decade of insider access. More about Justin Grasso
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