Detroit Pistons Forward Opens up on Playing Alongside Cade Cunningham

Detroit Pistons trade acquisition discussed his stint playing with Cade Cunningham.

Dec 21, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) dribbles defended | Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

One of the many moves the Detroit Pistons made at the trade deadline was acquiring Simone Fontecchio from the Utah Jazz. Following his small sample with the team this year, the 28-year-old had a lot of positive things to say about the team’s star guard.

During his press conference following exit interviews, Fontecchio touched on a variety of topics. Among the things to come up was his thoughts on Pistons guard Cade Cunningham. Fontecchio opened up on the conversations they’d have and how he loved playing alongside the former No. 1 pick.

"He said 'Tell me where you want the ball, and I'm like, 'No one has ever really asked me stuff like this,'” Fontecchio said. “I told him do your thing and I’ll try to be available as much as I can. I love playing with him. I think he’s a real point guard and Detroit's very lucky."

From the moment he joined the Pistons, Fontecchio proved he can be a key contributor moving forward. He thrived in a complementary role playing off Cunningham, especially as a kick-out option beyond the arc. In the 16 games he played following the trade, Fontecchio averaged 15.4 PPG while shooting 42.6% from deep on high volume.

This offseason, Fontecchio is set to hit restricted free agency. The Pistons have final say in whatever offer sheet he sings, and will surely try to keep him long-term. Fontecchio has already expressed his admiration for the Pistons and how it’s his goal to remain with them for the foreseeable future.

Seeing how three-point shooting was a weak point for the Pistons this season, keeping Fontecchio should be high on the priority list.