Contract Increase Pushes Cade Cunningham Into Superstar Status

Cunningham’s contract increase still allows the Pistons to retain key veterans like Malik Beasley, Dennis Schröder, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Paul Reed on new deals. However, the long-term picture is more complex. Cunningham’s extension will strain the Pistons’ cap just as Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren become extension-eligible.

Pistons president Trajan Langdon has until the day before the 2025-26 season opener starts to extend Ivey and Duren. His approach—while avoiding second-apron penalties—will heavily influence the Pistons’ roster strategy moving forward. These negotiations will test Langdon’s ability to balance financial discipline with the need to secure the team’s young core. Locking in both players early could provide stability, but delayed extensions might create uncertainty—and potential leverage shifts—as the team continues to build around Cunningham.

From Star to Superstar: Cunningham’s Next Big Leap

With an All-NBA nod, All-Star recognition, and a top-10 MVP finish under his belt, expectations for Cunningham will skyrocket heading into next season. This season, Cunningham made his first All-Star game, ranked seventh in MVP voting, and was third in Most Improved Player voting, solidifying his rising star status. The challenge will be sustaining that level of play while leading a young team with playoff ambitions.

This summer will be critical. Cunningham is expected to sharpen his outside shooting, tighten his handle, and continue building chemistry with a young core learning to win together. He’s expected to embrace a louder leadership role as the Pistons’ emerging franchise centerpiece off the court. The pressure will be heavier, and the spotlight will be brighter. But if this past season was any indication, Cunningham is ready to leap from rising star to full-fledged superstar.

The Last Word

Cade Cunningham’s contract increase reflects the Detroit Pistons’ belief in him as their centerpiece. Still, it also tightens the financial margins for a front office trying to build a sustainable contender. As cap space tightens and extension decisions loom, Cunningham’s growth remains the steady force driving the Pistons forward.

For the first time in years, there’s real momentum in Detroit. And with Cunningham leading the charge, the Pistons are no longer just rebuilding—they’re building toward something real. The culture is shifting, the young core is maturing, and the fan base is re-engaged. There’s still work to do, but the foundation is stronger than it has been in over a decade. If Cunningham stays on this path, the Pistons could soon be more than playoff hopefuls—they could be genuine contenders.