The league clarified that Cunningham’s 63 qualified games, affected by the injury, meet the criteria for extraordinary circumstances, and the NBPA agreed that both Cunningham and Luka Doncic qualify for awards under that provision.
Even with eligibility established, Cunningham remains a longshot in the MVP race. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the clear favorite, with most major sportsbooks listing him between -180 and -250. Nikola Jokic sits a step behind at roughly +300, and Cunningham is grouped with other top contenders, with recent odds placing him at +1400.
This season, Cunningham has logged strong all-around numbers: about 33.9 minutes per game across 64 appearances, averaging 23.9 points, 9.9 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game while shooting 46.1% from the field and 34.2% from three. A two-time All-Star and last season’s third-team All-NBA selection, he has shown he can be a dominant offensive creator when healthy.
If MVP isn’t in the cards, Cunningham’s performance still positions him for All-NBA consideration and solid leadership as the Pistons pursue a playoff push. His injury interrupted momentum, but his ceiling remains high, and his inclusion on the ballots keeps him in the conversation as Detroit continues its season.
