The distant rumble you hear is the MotorCade, roaring out of Detroit. Yes, the hype for Cade Cunningham is accelerating as he secures a spot on the Kia MVP Ladder. Too early? Not really, especially if you've been tracking his impressive performances for the surging Detroit Pistons.
Cunningham has arguably been one of the top-five players since the start of 2025, though his strong performances earlier in the season went relatively unnoticed. Now, with the Pistons thriving — boasting a 7-2 record this month, including a standout road win against the Knicks — Cunningham is firmly in the spotlight.
The former 2021 No. 1 overall pick is finally healthy and showcasing his versatile skills, potentially earning a place in next month’s All-Star Game. In January, he’s averaging 25.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. His contributions are even more significant given the team’s loss of Jaden Ivey for the season due to a broken leg.
“Playing the game the way you feel it and see it, that’s key. But with great power comes great responsibility. You’ve got to prioritize the team,” Cunningham said.
While Cunningham currently holds the No. 9 spot on the MVP Ladder, his impact is undeniable. The real test will be whether he can sustain the momentum and guide the Pistons to a playoff berth—a hallmark of an MVP-caliber player.
This Week’s Highlights
Shifting Focus: The Lakers and Clippers Rivalry
This week’s buzz isn’t just about the MVP Ladder but also “The Wall,” the fan section at the Clippers' new Intuit Dome in Inglewood. The Lakers' first visit on Sunday (9 p.m. ET, NBA TV) will reveal if Clippers fans can hold their ground or if Lakers supporters will take over.
Key Stat: Luka Dončić
Luka Dončić’s injury means he won’t meet the minimum games required for major awards this season, excluding him from the MVP Ladder. However, he’ll remain a force when he returns for Dallas.
Expert Take:
“If I were watching the league and looking for players to team up with, Cunningham would be one of them. He’s the new Tyrese Haliburton—an absolute star,” said former NBA player Chandler Parsons.
Top 5 on the MVP Ladder
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Last week’s ranking: 1
Season stats: 31.6 points, 6 assists, 2 steals
Why He’s No. 1: The Thunder, fresh from a victory over the East-leading Cavaliers, are rolling, and so is Gilgeous-Alexander. He has dipped below 30 points only twice this month and continues to lead the league in scoring while ranking third in steals. With a lighter schedule ahead, his numbers could climb even higher.
2. Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets
Last week’s ranking: 2
Season stats: 30.6 points, 13.2 rebounds, 9.9 assists
Why He’s Here: Despite dealing with an elbow issue, Jokić has adapted by focusing less on scoring and more on team play. As the Nuggets gain momentum, his MVP chances grow stronger.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Last week’s ranking: 3
Season stats: 31.3 points, 11.8 rebounds, 6.1 assists
Why He’s Here: Giannis’ scoring has dipped slightly this month, but that’s due to improved team performance. As the Bucks stabilize, his value as a leader remains evident, reflected in his status as the top All-Star vote-getter.
4. Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
Last week’s ranking: 6
Season stats: 25.4 points, 13.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists
Why He’s Climbing: Despite minor injuries, Towns continues to deliver. A standout performance against the Bucks and a strong All-Star Game candidacy keep him high on the list.
5. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
Last week’s ranking: 4
Season stats: 24.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, 4 blocks
Why He’s Falling: Inconsistent team performance has hurt Wembanyama’s MVP case. However, a key matchup against Memphis this Friday could bolster his position.
The Next 5:
Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets
Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers
Honorable Mentions:
Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings
Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
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