Cade Cunningham at 16th in NBA rankings? Detroit Pistons fans, brace for a heated debate. Is the young star underrated or right where he belongs?

Host Ku Khahil and guest Matt Griffin break down the Ringer's top 100 NBA players list, focusing on Pistons' placements. They analyze Cunningham's impact, compare him to other rising stars, and question some surprising rankings. The discussion shifts to Jalen Duren's unexpected inclusion and potential future Pistons on the list. Plus, get insider insights on the team's crucial 37th draft pick and how recent changes in college basketball are reshaping draft strategies.

Tune in for expert analysis on the Pistons' roster, draft prospects, and where they stand in the NBA hierarchy. Will Cunningham crack the top 10 next year?

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Betterhelp
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Monarch Money
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FanDuel
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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Is Ausar Thompson the key to the Detroit Pistons' resurgence? Host Ku Khahil breaks down Thompson's sophomore season, revealing how his insertion into the starting lineup transformed the team's defense from third-worst to eighth-best. Discover Thompson's impressive stats, including his 11 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game, and learn why his impact goes beyond the box score.

Khahil analyzes Thompson's strengths, from his elite defensive skills to his improved finishing at the rim. He also addresses areas for improvement, including three-point shooting and ball handling. With comparisons to NBA greats like Andre Iguodala and Andrei Kirilenko, find out why Thompson might be the Pistons' second-most impactful player.

Tune in for an in-depth look at how Ausar Thompson is reshaping the Detroit Pistons' future and what it means for their playoff aspirations.

OpenPhone
Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba

Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Detroit Pistons face crucial offseason decisions. Can they navigate the salary cap maze to build a contender?

Explore the Pistons' complex financial landscape as NBA salary cap expert Keith Smith breaks down potential moves. From leveraging Cade Cunningham's All-NBA selection to weighing sign-and-trade options for players like Tim Hardaway Jr., the discussion covers every angle. Smith analyzes free agency targets, including Naz Reid and Myles Turner, while examining the impact of the new CBA on Detroit's young core.

Tune in for insider insights on how the Pistons can transform their roster and set the stage for long-term success in the Eastern Conference.

OpenPhone
Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba

Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)