Pistons coach reacts to Cade Cunningham’s performance against Pacers

After a long wait, the new-look Detroit Pistons finally had their first taste of regular season action under their belts. Although they couldn’t come away with a win, they fought well and stayed until the end. The Indiana Pacers barely managed to overcome them and came away with a 115-109 victory.

For the Pistons, the standout performer was Cade Cunningham. The young guard started his fourth year in the league in a big way, with a stat line of 28 points, five rebounds and eight assists.

Heading into this season, Cunningham was a player many were watching as a potential candidate. he showed why Wednesday night, doing a little bit of everything for the Pistons. Although he wasn’t able to lead his team to victory, this is a strong start to the year for Detroit’s pivotal prospect.

Everything Cunningham did during the break worked very well for him, as the third quarter was where he did most of his damage. Playing nearly the entire period, he recorded 18 points and two assists on a near-perfect 8-for-9 shooting from the field.

After the game, Pistons coach JB Bickerstaff was asked about Cunningham’s ability to step up in the third quarter. He praised him for his performance and continues to echo that he is one of the best young talents in the league.

“That’s him,” said Bickerstaff. “He’s one of the elite talents in our league. He’s got the ability to hang in there, get it going like he did tonight. That’s what we’re going to need from him all year.”

For Bickerstaff, this was a chance to get his first win as head coach of the Pistons. He won’t have to wait long for his next opportunity, as Cunningham and company return to action on Friday. The next game for the Pistons should be especially important for Bickerstaff, as he will face his former team in the Cleveland Cavaliers.