The Detroit Pistons announced on Tuesday that star Cade Cunningham will be out for at least one more week, news that actually didn't send fans down a spiral. The goal for him is to be healthy enough to return for the postseason, and that's in play. It helps, of course, that the team hasn't gone down a spiral of their own without him.
Based on the update, when Cunningham is re-evaluated, there will be two regular-season games left on the Pistons' schedule. If he can play in both (or even one), great! If not, that will be fine, too, although it'd be nice for him to get some live-game action after missing time due to a collapsed lung.
Given the severity of that kind of health issue, basketball becomes an afterthought. At least Cunningham's was considered a "mild" case, but that doesn't make it any less scary. That's why it was so great to see him back on the sideline smiling at Little Caesars Arena on Tuesday. He's progressing well, but that doesn't mean he's ready to play again just yet.
Official medical update on Cade Cunningham. pic.twitter.com/ae8m3u0hVN
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) April 2, 2026
Are Pistons better without Cade? No, but...
Everyone is understandably eager to see Cunningham back on the floor, but with six games left in the season, the Pistons have a four-game lead over the No. 2 Celtics. Detroit has gone 6-2 over the past two weeks, far better than most expected.
The Pistons have been forced to figure out who they are without Cunningham (a blessing in disguise), so now, those non-Cade minutes aren't as worrisome, which will especially help the team come playoff time.
Look at Daniss Jenkins, who is averaging just below 20 points in the last seven games. The confidence boost he's gotten as a starter is huge, especially right before he plays in his first-ever postseason.
Jalen Duren has made an impressive leap this season, as is, and seeing his production remain at the height it's been without Cunningham has been quite reassuring. He shot 12-of-13 in Tuesday's win over Toronto for 31 points (his second 30+ point outing in three games), nine rebounds, and three assists.
In other words, the pressure isn't building with Cunningham out, which must be nice for him, as it should be helping aid his recovery. You know he wants to get back out there, but not before he's ready, so while learning that Cade will miss more time typically wouldn't be a good thing, it is in this case. Recovery is most important.