Cade Cunningham was the number one recruit in the nation in 2020 and decided to attend Oklahoma State University. There he averaged 20.1 points and 3.5 assists in his lone college season. With the Detroit Pistons on the clock in the 2021 draft and a huge need at guard, the fit just made too much sense. Cunningham was selected first overall to Detroit and although his career is still very young, he has shown that he can be a superstar in the NBA.
2021
In his rookie campaign, Cade was impressive. He averaged 17.4 points, 5.6 assists, and 5.5 rebounds in 64 games. In the 64 games he played, The Pistons were 18-41 with him and 2-16 without him. However, Cade was drafted into a bad situation and a team with a record of 20-44. Many Pistons fans were able to understand the situation Cade was in and make the most of it. Throughout the duration of his rookie season, it was clear Cade was the most impactful player on the court for the Pistons. Between getting his teammates involved and representing the city of Detroit, the Pistons knew they did not miss on Cade.
2022
Cade’s 2022 season was cut short after 5 games due to a shin injury. In the 5 games he did play, Cade averaged 16.2 points, 5 assists, and 6.2 rebounds. The Pistons finished with a league-worst 17-65 record.
2023
The 2023 season could be a big one for the Pistons and Cade. Cade looks to rebound from his rookie season and improve on the floor. Although they did play 5 games together on the court, 2023 will be a season for Cade and Jaden Ivey to really improve their chemistry. With the performance of the Pistons in the 2022 season, they will be granted a top 5 pick via the NBA lottery. It will be very interesting to see who the Pistons decide to team up with Cade and Ivey whether that be Victor Wembanyana or Brandon Miller. Cade will love having another early draft pick to work with and hopefully earn the Pistons a 2023 playoff spot.
Cade Cunningham, 2023 projections:
- 18.5 points
- 6 assists
- 4.5 rebounds
___
For more from the author Charles Bolone, follow him out on Twitter here: @cbolone
Tweet: @WoodwoodSports or comment on your favorite social media platform!
The Woodward Sports Shop has ALL NEW Apparel – check it out here!
Photo Credit: © Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
