Photo: Detroit Pistons/X

Heading into Tuesday’s game, the Detroit Pistons were leading the NBA in wins for January, earning them recognition as one of the most surprising teams of the year, according to Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press.

This turnaround has been largely driven by the stellar play of Cade Cunningham, who is quickly establishing himself as a bona fide star.

Just a year after the Pistons endured an NBA-record 28-game losing streak, Cunningham is now making a legitimate case to be an All-Star starter.

Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff highlighted the team’s efforts to support the talented point guard’s development, saying, “Our job is to put him in position to be successful. And then he’s got to go out there and do it.”

Bickerstaff also reflected on the growth and understanding between Cunningham, himself, and the entire team, stating, “Over these 40 games now, he and I and his teammates have learned a lot about each other and how we can best help each other.

“And that’s what it’s about – each of us playing our role and doing what we’re supposed to do together and collectively to just help one another, make this team as good as we possibly can. Cade knows his role and what this team needs, and he’s executed perfectly.”

Detroit’s young standout performance this month has been nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 26.5 points and 8.3 assists per game in January, he has also been lights-out from three-point range, shooting an impressive 45.8%.

His contributions have been pivotal to the Pistons’ success, and his continued growth as both a player and leader has the team positioned for brighter days ahead.

Cunningham has spent four seasons with the Pistons, playing 174 regular-season games. During this time, he has averaged 20.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game, solidifying himself as a key player for the team.