Carmelo Anthony Eyeing Mentorship for Cade Cunningham Amidst NBA Playoffs

NEW YORK, NY — Carmelo Anthony, the newly minted Hall of Famer, has expressed a desire to mentor NBA rising star Cade Cunningham during the ongoing first-round playoff series between the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons. The series is tied 1-1 after a thrilling Game 2 on April 21, where Cunningham led the Pistons to a 100-94 victory, showcasing his skills with 33 points and 12 rebounds.

Anthony, who attended the game at Madison Square Garden, was particularly impressed with Cunningham’s performance and his ability to connect with the crowd. In a memorable moment, Cunningham threw down a dunk in the third quarter and pointed at Anthony, a gesture the former Knicks star interpreted as a sign of mutual respect.

“It’s a respect thing,” Anthony said in his podcast, “7PM in Brooklyn.” He noted that he wears multiple hats: as a former Knick, a New York representative, and as someone who supports the new generation of talent. “I want to see what you’ve got to do. This is a very important series for you,” he added, highlighting Cunningham’s role in the Pistons’ playoff ambitions.

Anthony praised the Pistons for their team-building efforts. “They built that team the right way,” he stated. “They got physicality, athleticism, shooters … and you got Cade, who can lead now. That’s scary.” His comments reflect the growing belief that Detroit can make a significant playoff run.

Cunningham’s journey has already earned him recognition, as he received his first All-Star nod and a nomination for the NBA’s Most Improved Player title this season. His performance in Game 2 helped the Pistons snap a 17-year playoff win drought.

“It feels good to represent the city like we did tonight,” Cunningham said after the game. “It’s something that the city has been waiting on for a long time.” With the series shifting back to Detroit for Game 3, the excitement among Pistons fans is palpable, and their confidence is growing.