Carmelo Anthony recently shared a key insight on what Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham needs to elevate his game to superstar status. Over the past few seasons, Cunningham has grown into one of the NBA’s most promising young players, steadily refining his playmaking abilities.
“His feel,” Anthony said on his podcast 7PM in Brooklyn. “Like, the feel for the game, his flow of the game.”
According to Anthony, the main area of progress for Cunningham has been his game sense and composure under pressure. Melo noted that the Pistons star is beginning to embrace his role as the team’s leader and creator on the floor.
“I think what we’re seeing with Cade, he’s starting to understand that he’s wearing the white hat and he’s running that organ. So, with that comes confidence. With that comes responsibility, too,” Anthony explained.
Anthony pointed out that Cunningham’s growth as a floor general is evident in his passing numbers. During his rookie year, he averaged 5.6 assists per game. Last season, that figure rose to 9.1, and it continues to climb this season as his chemistry with teammates deepens.
Anthony believes that Cunningham’s understanding of leadership will ultimately define his trajectory toward superstardom. For the veteran forward, the next step is not about scoring or highlights—it’s about mastering the rhythm and responsibility that come with guiding a team.
Carmelo Anthony sees Cade Cunningham’s evolving leadership and growing court awareness as the foundation of his rise toward becoming a true NBA superstar.