Cade Cunningham Denies Recruiting Other NBA Stars to Detroit
All-NBA guard Cade Cunningham has denied a recent ESPN report that he's been recruiting other NBA stars to join the Detroit Pistons.
Cunningham told FTW and USA TODAY Sports that the report about his involvement in recruiting Austin Reaves and potentially others wasn't entirely accurate. "I don't know where that report came from," he said. "I never told anybody that I talked to XYZ. I wouldn't say that report was all the way true either."
The Detroit Pistons have been quiet during the offseason after exceeding expectations by finishing first in the Eastern Conference last season. However, they'll need to make significant moves to contend again in 2026-27, with teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat making significant changes.
Cunningham, who carries the biggest burden if the roster takes a step back, is focused on the Pistons' success. "But definitely, I'm all about the Pistons," he said. "I want the Pistons to be at the highest level possible. If there's somebody that is available or wants to play for the Pistons that I could see that happening and feel like it's a good fit, it's easy to talk to them about that."
The Pistons were reportedly interested in signing several high-profile players, including Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Kawhi Leonard, all of whom are still under contract with their current teams. Meanwhile, LeBron James, a free agent, ultimately signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, a team that was rumored to be in consideration for his services.
Cunningham didn't reach out to James to gauge his interest in joining the Pistons. "I didn't give LeBron a call," he said. "I don't think he would've cared to hear what I had to say." He added that he's not mad about James' decision to sign with the 76ers. "But he's doing what he wants to do at this point and I'm not mad at that. Good for him."
The Pistons' offseason plans are still unclear, with center Jalen Duren embroiled in a contract dispute with the team. Cunningham's comments suggest that he's committed to helping the team attract talent, even if it's not through direct recruitment. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the Pistons' roster for the 2026-27 season.
Cunningham's comments have shed light on the Pistons' offseason plans, but many questions remain unanswered. The team's ability to attract high-profile players will be a key factor in their success next season. As the offseason continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Pistons will need to make significant moves to contend in the competitive Eastern Conference.
Source: Yahoo Sports