The Detroit Pistons began their five-game road trip with a 107-96 win over the Houston Rockets. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 32 points. Jalen Duren added a dominant performance with 16 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 steals. The game reignited the rivalry between Cunningham and Jalen Green , the top two picks in the 2021 NBA Draft. Since entering the league, Green has displayed animosity toward Detroit, especially when facing Cunningham.
In six career games against the Pistons, Green has averaged 23.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists. He has shot 41.6% from the field, 31.3% from three, and 76.9% from the free-throw line. In his four head-to-head matchups with Cunningham, Green’s numbers slightly drop, he averages 19.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists, his shooting splits are 40% from the field, 32.4% from three, and 85.7% from the line.
Cunningham, by comparison , has excelled in their matchups. He averages 21.0 points, 7.3 assists, and 5.5 rebounds, he shoots 42.9% overall, 40.9% from three, and 75% from the line. These stats highlight his dominance over Green in direct competition. Now, four years later, both players are building their careers. The Pistons’ choice to draft Cunningham has clearly paid off.
Pistons Cunningham Proves Right Draft Decision Over Green
Why The Pistons Drafted Cunningham
The Pistons’ drafting of Cunningham first overall in 2021 transformed their franchise. The year before, Detroit had drafted Killian Hayes with the 7th pick, hoping he could develop into their lead guard. However, Hayes’ rookie season was hampered by injuries and inconsistency, as he averaged 6.8 points, 5.3 assists, and 2.7 rebounds while shooting 35.3% from the field, 27.8% from three, and 82.4% from the line.
When the Pistons landed the top pick, Cunningham’s all-around game made him the clear choice. The team initially experimented with a Hayes-Cunningham backcourt, but Cunningham’s superior scoring, playmaking, and defensive instincts quickly solidified him as the team’s lead guard. Hayes, while a solid defender and passer, transitioned into a complementary role. Cunningham has since established himself as the Pistons’ cornerstone, making clutch plays on both ends of the floor and justifying Detroit’s decision to build their future around him.
Green’s Comments on Detroit
After the Pistons drafted Cunningham, sparked controversy with these comments .
“I wanted to be the No. 1 pick, but as for the location, I didn’t want to be in Detroit. “I felt a lot more comfortable in Houston. It felt like a real homie environment. With Detroit, it felt like I was just going back to the G League bubble, and I just got out of the bubble.”
It’s fair to wonder whether Green’s perspective would have changed had he been drafted by Detroit. Although Green has demonstrated potential as a dynamic scorer, his inconsistent play at times, and questionable shot selection at times would likely have frustrated Pistons fans—especially given Cunningham’s emergence as a potential All-Star this season.
Green’s dismissal of Detroit also seems misguided. The city has made significant strides in recent years, with Travel + Leisure naming it a top travel destination, citing its innovation, talent, and opportunities. Detroit’s resurgence was on full display during the 2024 NFL Draft, which broke attendance records and showcased the city’s vibrancy.
The Last Word
The rivalry between Cade Cunningham and Jalen Green is more than a battle for draft-class supremacy; it symbolizes the contrasting trajectories of their respective franchises. Detroit’s decision to draft Cunningham has provided the Pistons with a steady foundation, as his leadership, versatility, and defensive contributions continue to elevate the team. Meanwhile, Green’s flashes of brilliance remain overshadowed by inconsistency.
Off the court, Detroit is defying outdated stereotypes, emerging as a city of growth and opportunity. Although Green may have overlooked its potential, the Pistons—and their fans—are embracing a brighter future. Ultimately, the decision to draft Cunningham wasn’t just a win for the Pistons; it reaffirmed their commitment to building something special both on the court and in the community.
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