As the consensus #1 overall pick in the 2021 draft, Cade Cunningham was always expected to be the best player in his draft class. Earlier in his career, Cade was doubted and even labeled a bust by some. But he has finally reached the point where he is universally seen as the best from his draft class.
As it stands, the starting five of stars from the 2021 draft would probably be Cade, Evan Mobley, Scottie Barnes, Franz Wagner and Alperen Sengun. This was apparent in last year’s contract extension season, when the first four guys all signed max 5-year extensions for $224M and Sengun signed one for $185M.
But Cade has started to separate himself from the pack. All five have made the playoffs playing a key role for their team, but only Cade has done so while serving as the primary star. Mobley and Sengun were on two of the deepest teams in the league last season, while Wagner has Paolo Banchero as the primary option. Barnes has not made the playoffs in a few seasons, but had Pascal Siakam leading the way in his lone postseason appearance.
Cade Cunningham: Eyes Set on Bigger Goals
The tide has definitely shifted on Cunningham’s reputation. In many young player rankings, he is now being considered with the likes of Anthony Edwards, a player who has led his team to multiple conference finals, rather than anyone else in the 2021 class.
The closest other 2021 draftee is probably Evan Mobley, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. His two-way play helped the Cavaliers land the #1 seed in the East last year. But fans and analysts also realize that Mobley is a complementary star rather than the primary driver of a team’s success like Cade is for the Pistons. Mobley cannot consistently create his own shot or opportunities for others like Cade does.
Next season, Cade Cunningham will have goals far beyond his own draft class. He’ll be looking to establish himself as one of the top players in the entire league and even gunning for top awards like the MVP. Beyond individual accolades, Cade will also be aiming for better playoff success for the Pistons, who may finish with one of the top seeds in the East.
Cade Cunningham is nowhere near his ceiling yet, but it’s refreshing to see silly debates about his place in the 2021 draft class being put to rest. Despite coming nowhere close to winning Rookie of the Year, Cade has consistently looked like the most talented member of the class when playing. Now that his health has improved and he has a competent supporting cast, he’s ready to take the next step and make his mark on the whole NBA.