Cade Cunningham shines with historic triple-double as Pistons rally past Wizards
The Detroit Pistons are making waves in the Eastern Conference, currently holding the best record in the league. While they may not lead the East in scoring—an honor that belongs to the Miami Heat with their impressive 121.7 points per game—the Pistons have established themselves as a formidable force in three of the six key statistical categories. They rank second in rebounding with an average of 46.8 boards per game and blocks, posting 6.0 per game. Additionally, their defense shines through as they sit fifth in steals, with a solid average of 9.5 per game.
Cade Cunningham’s Standout Performance
Leading the charge for Detroit is Cade Cunningham, who is just on the outskirts of the top ten in scoring, averaging 27.5 points per contest. He also ranks second in the league for assists, dishing out 9.3 per game. His impact was on full display during a nail-biting matchup against the Washington Wizards on November 10, where he delivered a staggering 46-point performance. This explosive showing marked the highest scoring game of the season for the Pistons, as they triumphed 137-135 in overtime.
Despite struggling with his shooting, needing 45 attempts to reach his total, Cunningham made his presence felt at the free-throw line, hitting 16 of 18 attempts. His contributions went beyond scoring; he also secured 12 rebounds and provided 11 assists, completing a remarkable triple-double that underscored his value to the team.
Jalen Duren’s Dominance on the Boards
On the rebounding front, Jalen Duren put forth an impressive display earlier in the month, achieving a 20-20 game during the Pistons’ 114-103 victory over the Utah Jazz on November 5. Duren’s performance was a masterclass in rebounding; he collected 22 boards, consisting of 15 defensive rebounds and seven offensive boards. His presence in the paint not only denied the Jazz second-chance opportunities but also created them for the Pistons. In addition to his rebounding prowess, he scored 22 points on an efficient 10-for-15 shooting from the field.
Cunningham’s Assists Showcase
Cunningham’s ability to facilitate plays was further highlighted in a game against the Dallas Mavericks on December 6, where he tallied 18 assists. This performance showcased his dual-threat capability, balancing scoring and playmaking, and solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Pistons’ offensive strategy.
As the season unfolds, both Cunningham and Duren are pivotal to Detroit’s success, demonstrating not just individual brilliance but also a cohesive team effort that has propelled the Pistons to the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
