Cade Cunningham Faces Tough Test Against Houston Rockets

Detroit, MI – Cade Cunningham is set for a challenging matchup as he takes on the Houston Rockets this week after making his season debut against the Chicago Bulls. The Rockets, fresh off a double-overtime loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, are known for their ability to contain star players. 

In their last game, the Rockets managed to limit reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 35 points. Despite his impressive total, SGA struggled against Houston’s defensive scheme, finishing with just 23 points at the end of regulation. He shot 12-of-26 from the field and hit only 1-of-9 three-point attempts. This performance highlights Houston’s knack for slowing down talented guards.

Both Cunningham and SGA share similarities; they excel at three-level scoring rather than relying solely on traditional shots. However, Gilgeous-Alexander faced intense pressure from Rockets defender Amen Thompson, who was recognized as an All-Defensive First Team selection last season. With Thompson’s support, the Rockets effectively reduced SGA’s ability to find space for his shots.

As Cunningham faces this formidable defense, he may find scoring more challenging. The Rockets possess height and length across all positions, excelling at pressuring primary ball handlers. Unlike the Thunder, who had several shooters like Chet Holmgren, who scored 28 points, and Cason Wallace, who hit 3-of-8 from three, the Pistons will need to show they can hit outside shots to help alleviate pressure on Cunningham.

Offseason improvements in Cunningham’s ability to handle defensive pressure will be crucial as he faces Thompson and the rest of Houston’s defense. While SGA may be a more prolific scorer, finishing at higher rates from various parts of the court, Cunningham has the opportunity to showcase his capabilities in this early-season contest.

Drawing fouls and finding open shots like SGA do typically pose challenges for Cunningham, who often has to take more contested shots. However, this matchup could be an important test for the Pistons’ superstar, who has high aspirations for both himself and his team this season. He must provide efficient offensive results against a tall lineup while being guarded closely, a challenge that will help shape his performance moving forward.