Detroit Pistons’ Guard Cade Cunningham dropped 11 points against the New York Knicks tonight in a comprehensive 80-118 victory. The Knicks were on an eight-game win streak coming into tonight’s game, which ended following their loss.
Cunningham has played in 44 games this year. And, he is averaging 25.4 points, 9.8 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game. Additionally, he was named to the NBA All-Star team, as the Pistons currently sit atop the Eastern Conference after tonight’s win.
Cade Cunningham Shares Wholesome Moment With Childhood Idol Dirk Nowitzki
Following the coverage of tonight’s victory, the Pistons’ Guard spoke to the crew on Amazon Prime. During this buildup, Cunningham sent a message to Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki. The two-time All-Star Guard grew up a fan of the Mavericks.
“Growing up, Dirk, you already know, you were the man in my city. Appreciate everything you did for us. I’m glad you enjoy my game.” Cunningham stated after tonight’s game. The Pistons’ Guard also sent a message to Steve Nash and Blake Griffin.
Cade Cunningham to Dirk Nowitzki:
“Dirk you already know, you was the man. My city, man. Appreciate everything you did for us… I’m glad you enjoy my game.”
(via @NBAonPrime) pic.twitter.com/nX3KmBRvOD
— MFFL NATION (@NationMffl) February 7, 2026
Nowitzki, who played his entire 21-year NBA career with the Mavericks and led them to their only championship in 2011, is seen as the heart and soul of the organization. He previously served as a special advisor for the Mavericks.
Cade Cunningham is from Arlington, Texas, and stated that he grew up as a Mavericks fan. Additionally, during an interview ahead of the NBA Cup game against Dallas, the Pistons’ Guard spoke about the opportunity to play in front of his family.
“Yeah, it’s home for me. Anytime I can play in front of my family, friends, and hometown, it’s special for me. I came to this game as a kid, that’s what up. Man Dirk, that’s the man, that’s my guy.” Cunningham explained, speaking to the media in December.
Following his performances this season, leading the Pistons to the top of the Eastern Conference, Cade Cunningham has himself firmly in consideration for the MVP award. The Pistons are currently competing with the Oklahoma City Thunder for the best record.
“The reality is we have an American-born MVP candidate in Cade Cunningham. Number one in the league, leading the league in assists, putting up 27 points a game. Cade Cunningham is as special of a player as we have in the league today.” stated Golden State Warriors’ star Draymond Green.
It has been over 20 years since the Pistons last won an NBA Championship; however, they are currently leading the conference. Following the NBA trade deadline, Pistons President Trajan Langdon spoke about not creating unrealistic expectations.
“What are we going to do in the postseason? The hope is we give ourselves a chance to play meaningful basketball in the postseason and that’ll allow us to assess what this team is and who we are going forward.” Langdon stated.
Currently, Cunningham is tied down to a long-term contract. The Pistons’ Guard agreed to a five-year, $224 million maximum rookie extension that could become worth as much as $269 million in 2024, meaning that he won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.
