As the NBA gears up for the 2025-2026 season, a significant buzz is circulating following the league’s official website releasing its coveted Top 10 players in the Eastern Conference list. A surprising yet well-deserved name has landed remarkably high on this ranking: Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham. His placement is particularly notable as he has edged out none other than former NBA MVP, Joel Embiid, cementing his status among the elite.

Cunningham’s impressive ascent to the fifth-best player in the Eastern Conference marks a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career. This ranking reflects a truly breakout 2024-25 season, during which he validated all the high expectations that accompany a former No. 1 overall draft pick. He transcended from a promising talent to a certified All-Star and All-NBA caliber player, single-handedly steering a once-struggling Detroit Pistons franchise into the playoffs.

Throughout the 2024-25 campaign, Cunningham proved to be a formidable challenge for opposing guards. His offensive repertoire showcased an effortless flow, characterized by smart decision-making and efficient execution. He consistently made the right pass and took opportune shots, creating significant matchup problems for defenses. This refined approach to the game meant he rarely endured prolonged slumps, maintaining a high level of performance.

Before his recent stellar performance, Cunningham’s early NBA years were marred by inconsistencies and injuries, leading to a developing negative perception. After playing in only 64 games during his rookie season, his sophomore year was cut short after just 12 matchups, raising questions about his durability and long-term potential in the league.

However, his third season in 2023-24 showed significant statistical improvement, with averages of 23 points, four rebounds, and eight assists, alongside a respectable 36 percent shooting accuracy from beyond the arc. Despite these personal milestones for Cade Cunningham, the team’s struggles persisted, culminating in a disappointing 14-68 record, which placed added scrutiny on the young face of the Detroit Pistons franchise.

Despite external skepticism regarding his value, the Pistons front office demonstrated unwavering faith in Cunningham. This conviction was underscored by their decision to invest a substantial max extension in the former No. 1 pick last summer, a move that has unequivocally paid dividends. Their belief in his potential as a franchise cornerstone has been fully justified by his subsequent on-court performance and leadership.

Indeed, the investment in Cunningham has proven to be a shrewd one. Not only did the Detroit Pistons roster see improvements, but Cunningham himself flourished with enhanced health, participating in a career-high 70 games during his fourth NBA season. This newfound durability allowed his talent to truly shine, establishing him as a consistent and impactful force on both ends of the court.

Beyond surpassing Joel Embiid, Cade Cunningham’s remarkable ranking places him ahead of other notable Eastern Conference talents. This includes Cleveland’s promising big man Evan Mobley, Boston Celtics’ versatile forward Jaylen Brown, New York’s skilled big Karl Anthony-Towns, and Atlanta Hawks’ dynamic guard Trae Young. This further solidifies his standing among the league’s elite and underscores the respect he has garnered.

As Cunningham looks ahead to his fifth year in the league, the spotlight and pressure on him are intensified. Nevertheless, the excitement and “Motor City” hype surrounding him are palpable, with many across the NBA landscape buying into the narrative of his continued rise to superstardom and his potential to lead the Detroit Pistons to sustained success.