The Detroit Pistons' postseason chances flashed before the team's eyes when the sudden news that Cade Cunningham would miss extended time with a collapsed lung broke in March.
Many didn't know if the MVP candidate would be ruled out for the remainder of the regular season, with a chance he could return in the postseason or if he'd be on the shelf until the 2025-26 season eventually came.
However, fans' concerns were put to rest with a recent update that the star guard was nearing a return to action as the NBA Playoffs quickly approach.
And while there's plenty of reason to celebrate the team's leader potentially coming back to hopefully lead the No. 1-seeded Pistons on a deep playoff run, there's also an elephant in the room that nobody wants to talk about.
Is Cade returning at 100% or will he be a shell of himself?
Obviously, a collapsed lung isn't a career-ending injury, and it's not like Cunningham is set to return from a gruesome injury that altered his career.
At the same time, it's important to mention that this type of injury could play a major toll on the star's stamina, and with the postseason here, something that minor could impact his performance majorly.
On the off-chance that Cunningham can return to play without any limitations or setbacks, Detroit will be in a prime position to make a run, but it's important that fans proceed with caution and not expect the playmaker to return to form immediately.
While expectations should be tempered, it's also safe to say that an 80% healthy Cunningham is better than no Cunningham at all.
Pistons are better with a limited Cunningham than they are without
The Oklahoma State product may not hit the ground running immediately, but there are holes that his presence can fill immediately upon returning, even if he's a bit rusty or limited with stamina.
Cunningham is a natural leader, and his impact on the court influences his teammates, maybe more than anyone recognizes.
Detroit will be much more dangerous with their primary ball handler back in the mix, and while it may send emerging guard Daniss Jenkins back to the bench, it could give Detroit a sixth man that could elevate them to another level when fully healthy.
There are plenty of reasons to be cautious, but it's also safe to be encouraged about what's to come for Cade Cunningham.