A No. 1 pick has to be the undisputed best player in his draft class. For Cunningham, that mission has been accomplished. After five seasons in the NBA, it is possible to make an informed assessment of his draft class, and the former Oklahoma State Cowboy has clearly earned his status as the first overall pick.
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That is because he has successfully showcased his talent in the NBA. He did so gradually, culminating last season when he became the leader of a team that finished top of the conference. Above all, through his performances and leadership, he helped the Detroit Pistons win a playoff series for the first time since 2008!
Of course, the season ended on a sour note with that Game 7 defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers. That is now Motor City's next objective. The legendary team of the 2000s, which reached at least six straight conference finals, can only hope another one will follow in its footsteps. The Pistons' shortcomings in the playoffs were clear; now it is up to the front office to fix them.
But personally, Cunningham is already a star. The next step is to become a superstar. The kind who wins MVP awards. The kind who wins championships.
The symphony is not yet complete, but the maestro continues to grow in stature season after season. Some would say he was born to compete for the award. Eight places to climb to reach No. 1 - probably not this year, but the progression must continue.
2025/26 stats: 23.9 points on 46.1% shooting, including 34.2% from three-point range, 9.9 assists and 5.5 rebounds (64 games)
Reasonable 2026/27 target: 26 points, 12 assists, 7 rebounds, MVP candidate
