Pistons Star Cade Cunningham Aims for Team USA

Merlin sees Cade Cunningham staking his claim for Team USA after telling GQ, "I take it seriously" and "I think I'm the best American player." The 24-year-old two-time All-Star is averaging 25.3 points, 9.6 assists and 5.6 rebounds while Detroit sits 40-13 and atop the East. B/R ranks him seventh overall and flags turnover and efficiency concerns, yet Cunningham drives a plus-10.1 on-court net rating. Merlin notes the narrative shift: Cunningham is moving from promising star to franchise cornerstone. With LeBron and Curry likely out by 2028, the backcourt lane to Los Angeles is open. If his efficiency rises and turnovers fall, an All-NBA First Team nod and a deep playoff run feel within reach.