The Detroit Pistons have finally found that generational talent that could take them back to the top of the NBA. They were granted the first-overall pick of the 2021 NBA Draft and used it wisely by taking Cade Cunningham.
The versatile guard out of Oklahoma State University promises to be a generational talent at the next level. Standing at 6’8” and 220 pounds, he’s got an NBA-ready body and a rare combination of size and skill.
Obviously, scouting isn’t an exact science and even the first-overall pick can end up being a bust. But if there’s such a thing as a ‘can’t miss’ kind of talent, that’s Cade Cunningham by all means.
Cade Cunningham Scouting Report
While not the best athlete, Cunningham has elite footwork, fine movements, and the craft of a veteran. He’s got the basketball IQ of a point guard, the size of a small forward, and the strength of a power forward. And he’s yet to bulk up under an NBA development program.
The Arlington native has a quick first step and a feel for creating separation to get to his spots. He can shoot efficiently from all three levels and has great awareness to grab offensive rebounds.
He’s not afraid to draw contact and is a solid finisher with both hands. He can overpower smaller players and is comfortable drawing double-teams, as his passing skills help him find the open guy.
Given his size and playmaking, he could be on triple-double watch night in and night out. He’s a triple-threat kind of player that defenses will have to adjust on the go, as he can hurt you in many different ways.
On the downside, Cade lacks the explosiveness you’d want out of a guard his size. He’s not exactly a freak of nature or has great hops. Also, his lack of speed helps savvier defenders get in front of him to draw an offensive foul.
There aren’t many negative things you can say about a prospect like this. He’s proven to be a solid leader and mentally strong to take a big shot, but he’s also been a team-first kind of guy who trusts his teammates down the stretch.
Cade Cunningham Player Comparisons
While some people overhyped him by comparing him with ‘Magic Johnson with a jump shot’ or ‘LeBron James 2.0′, the truth is that Cunningham’s ceiling is closer to Grant Hill, which is also pretty awesome.
Some would say that, due to his playmaking skills, size, and slow movements; Cunningham could be more similar to Luka Doncic than any of the aforementioned players, although Cade is a better defender than Luka was when he entered the league – and still.
Cade Cunningham Contract: How Much Will He Make In His Rookie Deal?
NBA Draft picks earn money depending on where they were picked. As the first-overall pick, Cade Cunningham will get an estimated $38 million ($17.2 million guaranteed) over four years.