Packing His Buffs, Cade Cunningham ‘All The Way In’ With Detroit Pistons
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As Cade Cunningham’s first interview as a Detroit Pistons member was coming to an end, he requested one final moment.
After inquiring ESPN’s Malika Andrews about the camera to address his newfound fans, he donned a set of Cartier sunglasses, solidifying his lifelong commitment to being a Detroiter.
Cunningham expressed his commitment, saying, “I’m fully invested in Buff Up, if you catch my drift. The Detroit Pistons have my complete support. Let’s make it happen.”
In a sports town that had been deserted for nearly a decade, devoid of any noteworthy excitement, these few words said it all.
All the way in.
No guarantees with Cade Cunningham, but hope in Detroit is enough
As anticipated, the Pistons welcomed Cade Cunningham back home on Thursday morning. They chose the highly skilled Oklahoma State standout as the first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, amidst a remarkable trio of talented prospects.
Unlike LeBron James, Cunningham may not be considered a generational talent. However, he has the potential to join the ranks of first overall draft picks like Kyrie Irving and Derrick Rose. With a strong skill set and a low risk of becoming a disappointment like Darko Milicic, Cunningham could have a promising future in Detroit.
Pistons’ GM Troy Weaver and his front office diligently conducted thorough research after securing the top pick in the June NBA Draft Lottery. They meticulously assessed the trade market and also successfully organized a workout session with Jalen Green.
Fans were on edge all summer until Adrian Wojnarowski from ESPN delivered the news on Thursday afternoon, confirming that Detroit had plans to draft Cunningham.
Wojnarowski’s report caused a significant shift in the betting market for Cunningham as the No. 1 pick, catching sportsbook traders off guard. They were possibly just as engrossed in Twitter updates as many Pistons fans. Cunningham’s odds went from -500 to -5000 after the report. Numerous bettors took advantage of the initial odds and placed late parlays, contributing to Cunningham becoming the highest risk for BetMGM Sportsbook as the potential No. 1 pick.
The Pistons have transitioned from being a franchise that had a glimmer of hope in Weaver’s debut season to now being a genuine up-and-coming team in the NBA.
Having spent ten years in the wilderness, the Pistons have not tasted victory in a playoff game since 2008. It’s safe to say that’s more than enough for the time being.
Are we looking at the Rookie of the Year?
Well, he’s the favorite.
Cunningham has been favored by a few Michigan sportsbooks as the top contender to win NBA Rookie of the Year.
As part of a limited-time offer valid until August 5th, DraftKings Sportsbook has increased Cunningham’s odds from +250 to +500, allowing a maximum bet of $25.
Let’s take a glimpse at Cunningham’s odds in comparison to other prominent Rookie of the Year contenders at Michigan sportsbooks. Specifically, we are referring to Green of Houston, who was selected second overall; Mobley of Cleveland, who went third; and Suggs of Orlando, who was chosen as the fifth pick.
| Player | BetMGM Sportsbook | DraftKings Sportsbook | PointsBet Sportsbook | William Hill Sportsbook | WynnBET Sportsbook |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cade Cunningham, Detroit | +275 | +250 | +260 | +260 | +250 |
| Jalen Green, Houston | +500 | +450 | +475 | +400 | +300 |
| Evan Mobley, Cleveland | +600 | +550 | +575 | +450 | +375 |
| Jalen Suggs, Orlando | +800 | +800 | +650 | +750 | +550 |
| Scottie Barnes, Toronto | +800 | +800 | +700 | +750 | +550 |
Cunningham will have ample playing time and opportunities to showcase his skills, given the Pistons’ previous season record of 20-52.
On Thursday night, the Pistons’ franchise witnessed the emergence of a promising player who not only spoke eloquently but also possessed an unassuming personality, traits that are highly valued in this community.
Based on the social media buzz and the lively atmosphere in downtown Detroit on Thursday night, it seems like the fans are eagerly anticipating Cade’s leadership for the Pistons, just as much as he is prepared to take on the role.
All the way in.
