Detroit guard Cade Cunningham said the NBA’s 65-game eligibility rule accomplishes its goal of keeping stars on the floor, even though it may cost him personal honors this season. Speaking Wednesday after the Pistons’ victory over Milwaukee — his first appearance since a collapsed lung — Cunningham acknowledged mixed feelings about the guideline.
“Fans pay a lot of money to watch us,” he said. “I respect that, so I respect the rule. It’s just tough because I did a lot of work to be in the conversation for awards and All-NBA.” Cunningham added that he is unsure how potential medical exceptions might apply and is focused on “helping my team win” day by day.
Durén Reaches Minimum, Nears Free Agency
Center Jalen Duren met the 65-game threshold in the same contest, keeping him eligible for postseason accolades as he heads toward restricted free agency this summer. Duren said Cunningham’s time away provided “a mental and physical break” for the guard while keeping him engaged with teammates through group chats and regular visits to the facility.
Tolu Smith Secures Standard Contract
The club recently converted second-year forward Tolu Smith from a two-way deal to a two-year standard contract. Smith told reporters he shared the news with family via FaceTime, calling the moment emotional. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff said the 25-year-old earned the promotion by consistently dominating the paint and the glass on both ends.
Monty Williams Reflects on Detroit Tenure
Former Pistons head coach Monty Williams told Andscape he still communicates with members of the organization and applauds the current staff’s work. Williams labeled his Detroit stint “a failure” but believes the experience will make him a better coach. He is currently coaching his two sons in Texas and has not ruled out an eventual NBA return.
Source: HoopsRumors
