Cade Cunningham Returns to Pistons Starting Lineup After Lung Injury

Cade Cunningham is back for the Pistons after missing 11 games. The team went 8-3 without him, but his return boosts their playoff hopes.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

Cade Cunningham, the Detroit Pistons' prominent guard, returned to the team's starting lineup on Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks. This marks his reappearance after an 11-game absence due to a collapsed left lung. Cunningham last played on March 17 against the Washington Wizards, with the injury being diagnosed two days later. The team had initially provided a minimum two-week recovery timeline.

Sources: Cunningham expected to play vs. Bucks - 1

Before his sidelined period, Cunningham was putting up notable numbers, averaging 24.5 points, 9.9 assists, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per contest. The Pistons navigated his absence effectively, achieving an 8-3 record and securing home-court advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Sources: Cunningham expected to play vs. Bucks - 2

The return of Cunningham, who has been a "key figure" in a strong season for the Pistons, comes as the team has already clinched the number one seed in the Eastern Conference. The club has three regular-season games remaining. Cunningham's performance this season has positioned him as a strong candidate for "All-NBA First Team" honors, though his total games played may fall short of certain benchmarks if he plays in all remaining fixtures. The team's offensive output with him on the floor shows an increase of 8.9 points per 100 possessions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did Cade Cunningham return to play for the Detroit Pistons?
Cade Cunningham returned to the Detroit Pistons' starting lineup on Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Q: Why was Cade Cunningham out for 11 games?
Cunningham was out for 11 games because he had a collapsed left lung. He was diagnosed with the injury on March 19.
Q: How did the Pistons perform while Cade Cunningham was injured?
The Pistons did well while Cunningham was out, winning 8 out of 11 games. They also secured home-court advantage for the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Q: What were Cade Cunningham's stats before his injury?
Before getting injured, Cunningham was averaging 24.5 points, 9.9 assists, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game.
Q: What does Cade Cunningham's return mean for the Pistons?
Cunningham's return is important because he is a key player for the Pistons, who have already secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference. His presence boosts the team's offense.