SHOCKER: Cade Cunningham ALL-NBA ELIGIBLE after Stunning NBA-NBPA REVERSAL!

Locked On Pistons - Daily Podcast On The Detroit Pistons37mApril 17, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In a stunning reversal, the NBA and NBPA have granted Cade Cunningham and Luka Doncic exceptions to the 65-game eligibility rule, making them both All-NBA award-eligible—despite Adam Silver’s earlier firm stance that no exceptions would be made. This decision, reached through direct agreement rather than arbitration, is a major win for Cunningham, whose season-defining impact on the Pistons’ Eastern Conference-leading campaign makes his exclusion from All-NBA teams historically inaccurate. The host argues that such awards shape legacy, influencing how future generations view a player’s peak. However, the move comes at a cost: Jalen Duren now faces an uphill battle to make the All-NBA teams, as Cunningham’s inclusion displaces him from the third team. The episode also features deep dives into Asar Thompson’s defensive breakout—earning him an A despite minimal offensive growth—and Ron Holland’s developmental season, where the host ultimately gives him a B, praising his 20-year-old impact on a top seed despite inconsistent shooting and handling. The episode underscores the tension between short-term rule enforcement and long-term player legacy, with the host calling for a reevaluation of the 65-game rule.

Key Takeaways
1

Cade Cunningham is now All-NBA eligible after NBA-NBPA agreement, overturning Adam Silver’s prior rejection of exceptions.

2

Cunningham’s inclusion is essential to an accurate depiction of the 2026 NBA season, as he was central to the Pistons’ top seed in the East.

3

Jalen Duren’s All-NBA chances are now significantly reduced due to Cunningham and Luka Doncic’s eligibility override.

4

Asar Thompson earned an A for his defensive dominance, ranking second in NBA defensive EPM behind only Victor Wembanyama.

5

Ron Holland’s season was inconsistent but earned a B due to his 20-year-old impact on a top-seeded team, despite poor shooting and handling.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

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2:00
3 min

Cade Cunningham’s All-NBA Eligibility Shock

I was really shocked because it didn't seem like Adam Silver was... interested in making any of these exceptions.

Highlight
5:00
5 min

Why the 65-Game Rule Is Flawed

For Cade to not make All-NBA team this year, it wouldn't be an accurate way of depicting his legacy.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

The Ripple Effect: Jalen Duren’s All-NBA Chances

It definitely makes it harder for him to make it. And he's going to be on fewer ballots.

Highlight
15:00
5 min

Asar Thompson’s Defensive Breakout

He was the second best defender in the NBA this year behind Victor Wembanyama.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
he was the second best defender in the NBA this year behind Victor Webinyama.
Kukuhil18:22
Viral: 85.0
I was really shocked because it didn't seem like Adam Silver was... interested in making any of these exceptions.
Kukuhil5:14
Viral: 82.0
Simply being able to do that and contribute in some way to the number one seed in the East is a huge accomplishment in of itself.
Kukuhil38:04
Viral: 80.0

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