nba

Detroit Pistons deep dive, polarizing Paolo Banchero + Unrivaled awards

We have a fun episode of The Dunker Spot coming your way!

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones are joined by Ku Khahil (LockedOnPistons) to discuss the league-best Detroit Pistons. The discussion ranges from the growth of Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson's shifting (and sometimes confusing) role offensively, JB Bickerstaff's impact, the Pistons' title chances and more.

From there, the guys have a conversation about Paolo Banchero -- and the conversation around Paolo Banchero. They discuss his strengths, his weaknesses, how Orlando's context impacts him, and if it's fair to question his place as a no-doubt-about-it building block.

Finally, Nekias reveals the rest of his Unrivaled award ballot (DPOY, Coach of the Year, All-Unrivaled Teams) to Steve as the two discuss a talented field of candidates.

If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at [email protected].

1:53 Preseason expectations for the Pistons
6:52 Impressions of JB Bickerstaff's tenure
11:58 Growth of Cade Cunningham
33:02 Ausar Thompson's role and usage
43:42 Rapid fire questions (Cade MVP, DET vs the West, best lineup, Duren's ranking among East bigs)
47:58 Paolo Banchero conversation
01:06:23 Unrivaled awards

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) looks to pass the ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)
Caroline Brehman

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