Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham returned from an 11-game absence due to a collapsed left lung on Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks. Cunningham, who last played on March 17, contributed 13 points, 10 assists and five rebounds in the Pistons’ 137-111 win.
When asked about his ineligibility for end-of-season awards due to the 65-game rule, the 24-year-old guard responded:
“I have a lot of respect for that (rule). The fans come to watch me play, and I wanna make sure that I’m available. … In that way, I respect the rule. … It’s tough for me right now this year because I did a lot of work to be in consideration for awards and All-NBA (selection). I’m in a tough spot, but it’ll all play out how it is supposed to. I’m just trying to do my best to help my team win.”
Cade Cunningham is averaging 24.5 points, 9.9 assists, 5 and 1.5 steals per game. He was among the MVP contenders after carrying the Pistons to the top of the Eastern Conference.
Cunningham’s 11-game absence proved to be costly, as it will prevent him from reaching the minimum game requirement. He will be one game short of consideration for end-of-season awards even he plays in the Pistons’ remaining two games.
Cade Cunningham’s Return Bodes Well for Pistons’ Playoff Campaign
The Detroit Pistons had a 49-19 record when the team announced in mid-March that Cade Cunningham would be sidelined due to a collapsed left lung. Without him, the Pistons retained the No. 1 spot in the Eastern Conference. Detroit improved its record to 58-22 following its win against Milwaukee.
The Pistons are 13-5 without their franchise cornerstone this season, but they will badly need him for the playoffs. Cunningham is easily their best scorer and playmaker. He is the engine that makes the Pistons’ engine hum.
Cade Cunningham is also no slouch on defense, ranking third on the team in defensive win shares, third behind Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson. Detroit will likely only go as far as the two-time All-Star can carry the team.
As the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, the Pistons will face the team that clinches the No. 8 seed. The Miami Heat, Charlotte Hornets, Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic, the likely teams that will compete in the play-in tournament, will be no pushovers, particularly if Detroit plays them without Cunningham.
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