Next season promises to be crucial for the Detroit Pistons. While they are still considered a rebuilding team, a completely new management and coaching staff was the first step toward a complete turnaround. And the team’s investment in Cade Cunningham proved they believe the former No. 1 overall pick has the tools to lead the way.
A panel of ESPN analysts recently voted on the state of each major award category heading into the 2024-25 NBA season. Cunningham received a mention in the Most Improved Player photo.
Coming in fourth, Cunningham was considered a strong contender for the award.
Cunningham trails Coby White, one of the NBA’s most accomplished players, who finished last season as a finalist for the award. White was beaten out by Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey.
Above the two Central Division nominees are Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, who judges say are tied for the best chance of winning the award.
Heading into his third NBA season, Williams has played in 146 games. Last year, he improved his scoring game, averaging nearly 20 points over the season. The former first-round pick shot 54 percent and made 43 percent of his three-pointers.
As for Wembanyama, his sophomore season is highly anticipated. Before entering the NBA, Wembanyama was already considered a potential future MVP, earning him the label of a generational talent. The French pivot’s start to the season was a bit slow, but he finished the season as well as expected. It will take a major sophomore slump for voters to turn away from Wembanyama next year.
