The NBA has commenced announcing the recipients of postseason accolades, and unsurprisingly, the Detroit Pistons won’t be among them.
While the Pistons did receive mention in a recent survey conducted among players, it wasn’t in the most complimentary context.
Just last night, it was revealed that Tyrese Maxey clinched the Most Improved Player award, a development that came as little surprise.
Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Tyrese Maxey has won the 2023-24 NBA Most Improved Player of the Year award. pic.twitter.com/gnAtw6ikHI
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 23, 2024
There’s been some debate over whether a player like Maxey deserves to win this award, considering he was already quite skilled. However, he did notably elevate his game to All-Star level this season and played a crucial role for the 76ers during Joel Embiid’s absence.
Had the Pistons performed better, Cade Cunningham might have been considered for the award, as he also showed significant improvement this season. If the Pistons aim to demonstrate progress and a positive trajectory, it’s essential for Cunningham to at least be in the running for this award next season.
Detroit Pistons: Cade Cunningham and the Most Improved Player award
I’d be thrilled if a couple of Pistons were in the running for MVP, made the All-NBA or All-Star teams, or even landed on the All-Defensive squad next season. However, let’s face it, the likelihood of that occurring is as slim as me getting featured in any of those categories.
Nevertheless, there’s a beacon of hope in the form of Cade Cunningham potentially clinching the Most Improved Player award. This would signal a positive turn for a franchise desperate for some optimism.
Such an achievement would mark Cunningham’s ascent into stardom, as securing the award requires All-Star caliber performance and significant statistical improvement. It would demonstrate that amidst the losses, the Pistons have unearthed a cornerstone player.
Moreover, Cunningham would need to play a substantial number of games, at least 65, to qualify for the award, a milestone he’s yet to reach in his first three seasons. His consistent presence on the court would be crucial for Detroit’s progress.
If Cunningham does indeed win the Most Improved Player award, it would signify not only his personal growth but also the team’s improvement. Typically, players from the league’s weakest teams aren’t considered for awards unless they’re rookies. Thus, his success would reflect a positive shift in the Pistons’ fortunes.
So, if by the end of next season Cunningham is hoisting the MIP trophy, it would signal a much-needed change for both him and the team, offering a glimpse of brighter days ahead after four challenging seasons.
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