Brandon Roy Sees Similarities with Cade Cunningham
NBA greats like Kevin Garnett and Richard Jefferson see shades of Brandon Roy in Cade Cunningham’s game. Is he the next great two-way guard?
Cade Cunningham's composed play draws comparisons to NBA star Brandon Roy Pistons YouTube
Young players like Cade Cunningham are often compared to a legend who, despite a short career, left a lasting impact on the game. Cade Cunningham, the Detroit Pistons’ cornerstone, is becoming that rare breed — drawing comparisons not only from fans, but from some of the league’s most respected voices.
What’s the name that keeps popping up?
Brandon Roy!
Veterans such as Channing Frye, Kevin Garnett, and Richard Jefferson have all stated that Cunningham’s playing style, poise, and impact are comparable to Roy’s. Even Brandon Roy himself, in a conversation with LandonBuford.com, acknowledged the comparison, seeing shades of his game in the young guard out of Arlington, Texas.
“There are similarities,” said Roy.
Cade Cunningham: A Quiet Storm Building in Detroit
Cade Cunningham’s breakout season during the 2024-25 season has removed doubts about his star potential after battling initial injuries. Cunningham, who is 6’7″ tall and has the court vision of a traditional point guard and the strength to dominate matchups, has redefined the definition of a modern floor general.
On NBA TV, Channing Frye stated, “I love his game. I think now he’s finally healthy… He reminds me so much of Brandon Roy. A new age Brandon Roy, just a little bit faster, but he never gets pushed out of his own pace. I love his game. I think now he’s finally healthy. He put some good bets around them.”
“They’ve established what the Pistons are and how they win. He reminds me so much of Brandon Roy right? A new age Brandon Roy just a little bit faster, but he’s never gets pushed out of his own pace. He’s always playing at his little herky jerky pace. He’s always making the right place. And look at me, these are crazy numbers, even if it’s the last six games. But to me, he has, you have to reward the young guys for fulfilling their talent and living up to expectations. ”
He is and we are all Huge fans of his game and the new age Pistons with Bickerstaff https://t.co/O90eOSrbtO
— Channing Frye (@
channingfrye) January 14, 2025
The Cade-Brandon comparison relies heavily on the word ‘pace’. Like Roy, Cunningham is adept at slowing down the game, manipulating defenders with hesitations and body control, and finding efficient ways to score or create opportunities for teammates.
Brandon Roy: The Prototype for Composed Greatness
Brandon Roy was a rising star on the Portland Trail Blazers before his career was tragically cut short by knee injuries. Roy, who was a three-time All-Star, was known for his smooth handling, mid-range mastery, and unshakeable demeanor under pressure. His impact was immediate and lasting.
Richard Jefferson’s appearance on ESPN’s The Jump brought to mind a powerful parallel. “When I look at Cade Cunningham, I see Brandon Roy. He was athletic but not super athletic… but he understood the game at an extremely high level.”
It’s that basketball IQ — the ability to process, anticipate, and react — that defines Roy and now defines Cunningham. Instead of relying on explosive athleticism, neither player relied on their minds and instincts to dominate.
Kevin Garnett Sees Roy’s DNA in Cade
Kevin Garnett, a veteran of the NBA, shared his passion for Cunningham’s game on the KG Certified podcast:
“He’s like Brandon Roy reincarnated… patient, and you can’t speed him up. And when you don’t think he’s strong enough — man, he’ll lay your ass. I seen him lace him up for a game… dunkin’ on dudes. Quiet, two-way smooth.”
Garnett’s endorsement is not solely based on skill, but also on demeanor and strength. Roy and Cunningham exhibit a level of calm confidence. They don’t talk much, but their games speak volumes. Precision is their method of dominance, not volume.
Recruiting Roots: Cade’s Visit to Roy’s Old Stomping Grounds
Cade Cunningham and Brandon Roy have a deeper connection than just the hardwood. Cunningham recounted his recruiting visit to the University of Washington, where Roy made his mark in a conversation with LandonBuford.com.
“I took a visit to Washington that I loved,” Cade said.
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In September 2019, a Seattle Times article stated that Cunningham was the No. 2-ranked prospect in the nation and visited UW on October 20th, 2019. Washington attempted to steer the Montverde Academy star away from other national powerhouses like North Carolina, Florida, and Kentucky during that pivotal weekend. In the end, his family connections led him to Oklahoma State, where his brother Cannen Cunningham worked as an assistant coach.
The fact that Washington, Roy’s alma mater, was a serious contender demonstrates Cade’s admiration and respect for Roy even during his high school years.
Statistical Similarities: Production with Poise
Observing Cade Cunningham‘s NBA production, it becomes apparent that there are parallels to Brandon Roy‘s early career. By their second or third season, both players were averaging more than 20 points per game. Both were proficient at shooting from mid-range and demonstrated advanced playmaking abilities.
Roy’s All-Star seasons saw him average 5.8 assists, but Cunningham is displaying a similar trend — producing career-high assist numbers as the Pistons rely more on his decision-making. Cade’s defensive versatility stands out slightly. Despite being 6’7″, he is capable of defending multiple positions. He has taken on a two-way role that Roy, despite his offensive brilliance, was unable to develop due to injuries and responsibilities.
The “Hurky-Jerky” Pace: Old School in a New Age
Roy and Cunningham are proficient in changing speeds. Frye said that Cade’s playing style is characterized by a ‘hurky-jerky pace’, which is often associated with guards like Luka Doncic, James Harden, and Brandon Roy. These players don’t pass by you quickly — they trick you into making errors.
They slow down with a purpose. They understand timing. Defining tempo is what makes Cunningham an elite floor general, just like Roy in his prime. Defenses struggle to contain him because they cannot speed him up and predict his next move.
A Future Beyond Comparison?
Cunningham is establishing his own legacy, while the Cade-Brandon comparison holds value. Cade has the tools to surpass what Roy could have been with the help of advanced analytics, modern skill development, and better injury prevention. Cade’s career trajectory could be more than just mirrored to Roy’s career if the Pistons continue to build around him with shooters, rim protectors, and switchable wings.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Generational Guards
The comparison between Cade Cunningham and Brandon Roy is not just a superficial one. Style, substance, and spirit make up their foundation. Their control of the game, calm leadership, scoring, and playmaking craft reveal the evident echoes.
Cunningham is evolving into a modern iteration of what Roy was, rather than just a copycat. Cade is in a position to redefine what it means to be a cerebral, composed combo guard for a new generation with the help of legends Garnett and Frye and the blessing of Roy himself.
