Cade Cunningham will be out for at least two weeks due to a collapsed lung, a setback for the Detroit Pistons as they aim for the playoffs.
The Pistons depend on Cunningham, who averages 24.5 points, 9.9 assists, and 1.5 steals. His absence may lead to regrets about not strengthening the team during the trade deadline.
Detroit Pistons made minimal moves to bolster the team
The Pistons are having a strong season with a 50-19 record and the second-best defense in the NBA. Offensively, they rely on Cunningham and All-Star Jalen Duren, who averages 19 points with a shooting percentage of 64.2. Without Cunningham, Duren’s effectiveness in pick-and-roll situations decreases.
Even though their offense has been solid due to free throws and their All-Star duo, their outside shooting is lacking. The Pistons rank third-lowest in three-pointers made, shooting at a rate of 34.9 percent.
At the trade deadline, the Pistons made only one significant move by trading former No. 5 pick Jaden Ivey for forward Kevin Huerter and a pick swap with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Since joining the Pistons, Huerter’s three-point shooting has been poor, at just 20 percent.
Cade Cunningham will need support upon his return
The duration of Cunningham’s absence depends on the severity of his injury and whether treatment involves a chest tube. He will be re-evaluated in two weeks, but lung issues could impact his fitness. Even after his return, expecting him to perform at his usual level right away may be unrealistic.
One advantage of this situation is that the Pistons will have to adapt and find ways to score without their star player. In their recent game, Duren scored 24 points, and Caris LeVert contributed 14 points and six assists in a 117-95 victory over the Washington Wizards. The real challenge awaits next week when they play against the strong Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks.
Other players on the roster will need to rise to the occasion. This would have been easier if the Pistons had focused on providing support for Cunningham at the trade deadline instead of aiming for draft positions. Now, they will be anxiously awaiting news on his recovery.