The superstar guard is listed out ahead of the Pistons’ road game against the Magic. Early today, he was upgraded to doubtful, marking the first time he has been upgraded from out since he went down with a collapsed left lung against the Washington Wizards on March 19.

The team announced Thursday that Cunningham will be reevaluated in one week as he “continues to progress in his return to play process under the supervision of physicians and Pistons medical and performance staff.”

Playoff push

Monday marks Cunningham‘s 11th straight absence, but the improvement in his injury status is encouraging, with four games remaining in the regular season’s final week and Game 1 of their first-round playoff series set for April 19, less than two weeks away.

Another key absence for Detroit

Isaiah Stewart, dealing with a left calf strain, was also upgraded to doubtful after missing 11 NBA games and was cleared to resume basketball activities on March 28. Neither Cunningham nor Stewart were with the team during Monday morning’s shootaround and will not play despite their upgraded status.

The Pistons have continued to win without Cunningham and Stewart, improving to 57-21 on Saturday to clinch the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference with a blowout win over the Philadelphia 76ers. The Pistons are 8-2 since Cunningham’s lung injury.

Cunningham’s numbers

In 61 contests, Cunningham is averaging 24.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 9.9 assists, while shooting 46.1% from the field, 34.6% from three-point range, and 81.4% from the free throw line, underscoring his efficiency on significant volume.

The Minnesota Timberwolves continue to monitor his workload closely after he recently returned from a multi-game absence due to the same knee problem, playing limited minutes in his comeback appearance.

Team staff are being cautious, especially with a back-to-back stretch coming up that could influence whether he suits up against Detroit. At this stage, his status will likely be decided after pregame warmups at Little Caesars Arena.

When and how did Anthony Edwards get injured?

Anthony Edwards is dealing with right knee inflammation that was officially diagnosed after an MRI during the 2026 NBA regular season. According to the medical staff, the issue surfaced after he was listed as questionable and had been playing through knee soreness before being shut down for evaluation.

The injury is not tied to a single in-game collision but instead developed gradually due to workload and recurring discomfort in the same knee. Team sources confirmed there is no structural damage, but the franchise opted for caution to avoid long-term risk during the playoff push.

As a result, the Minnesota Timberwolves placed him on a short-term recovery plan, with a 1–2 week re-evaluation timeline, meaning his availability has been managed game-by-game rather than ruled out long-term.

How many games has Anthony Edwards missed?

Anthony Edwards has missed 14 games during the 2025-26 NBA season due to knee inflammation, with his absence coming in multiple short stretches and potentially more depending on recovery timing.

ESPN reported that he has missed several games across different injury stretches this season, including earlier absences unrelated to the current knee issue, which has increased his total missed-game count compared to previous years.

Because of the Timberwolves’ cautious approach, his absence has not been continuous but instead split into short recovery periods, meaning the final total continues to fluctuate depending on when he returns to full minutes.

How is Anthony Edwards performing this season?

Anthony Edwards is having an elite 2026 season, averaging around 29.5 points per game and ranking among the top three scorers in the NBA. Even with missed games, he remains the clear offensive leader, also contributing strong numbers in rebounds, assists and defensive production while maintaining All-Star-level impact.

Despite injury interruptions, he continues to be a centerpiece for Minnesota’s playoff push, carrying heavy scoring responsibility whenever he is on the floor and reinforcing his status as one of the league’s premier guards.

James addressed his scoreless first half after the game, saying, “It’s the role that I’m playing for the ball club,” showing the maturity and experience he continues to display at this stage of his career while also sending a message that he is no longer the primary scoring option, instead sharing that responsibility with Luka Doncic amid uncertainty about his future and rumors of a potential pay cut next season.

He and Los Angeles eventually took a 113-110 loss at Little Caesars Arena on Monday night. James, however, showed no frustration toward the winners and instead praised Detroit, saying via Spectrum Sports, “Of course you give credit where credit is due. They’re the No. 1 team in the East. I give a lot of credit to them. We gave ourselves a chance. That’s all you can ask for.”

JJ Redick acknowledges LeBron’s new role

Detroit’s defensive approach frustrated LeBron James in the first two quarters, marking just the third time in his career that he went scoreless in a first half. His head coach, JJ Redick, did not focus on the scoring struggles after the game.

“I thought he played a really unselfish game,” Redick said to reporters. “I thought he did a good job of not just trying to score, but make the right play like he always does and he gets 10 assists.”

James embraced the role of facilitator. The four-time NBA champion came close to a triple-double, finishing with 12 points and nine rebounds. Luka Doncic led the scoring effort for Los Angeles with 32 points, while Austin Reaves added 24 points and DeAndre Ayton contributed 13.

However, LeBron James remains productive and continues to chase more milestones, including his most recent achievement of surpassing Robert Parish for the most games played in NBA history.

The Lakers continue their push in the Western Conference standings, and having him on the floor remains central to their game plan. So far, he has been one of the team’s most impactful players under head coach JJ Redick.

Facing a Pistons team that has been competitive at home, Los Angeles benefits from entering this matchup at full strength. With him expected to suit up, the game gains added intrigue as both teams look to secure an important result.

Why was Luka Doncic’s availability in doubt?

Luka Doncic’s availability was in doubt due to a potential one-game suspension after reaching the NBA technical foul limit. He had been assessed his 16th technical foul during the Los Angeles Lakers game against the Orlando Magic, which automatically triggers a suspension under league rules.

The incident came after a verbal exchange with Magic center Goga Bitadze. That call initially ruled him out of the upcoming matchup against the Detroit Pistons, creating uncertainty around his status heading into Mar. 23.

However, the Lakers appealed the decision, and the NBA later rescinded the technical foul upon review. That ruling kept him below the suspension threshold and ultimately cleared him to play at Little Caesars Arena.

Why did Luka Doncic receive that sanction?

Luka Doncic received a technical foul after a heated verbal exchange. It occurred in the third quarter while he was at the free-throw line, when he and Goga began trading words and were ultimately given double technical fouls by officials.

The situation escalated quickly. He claimed that Bitadze made an offensive comment about his family, which triggered his reaction. After the game, the Lakers’ point guard said:

“And at some point, this is basketball. At some point, I just can’t stand it. I gotta stand up for myself. But I know I gotta do better. My teammates, I know they have my back, so I let them down. But hopefully, it [gets] rescinded“.

Bitadze later explained in a phone call with ESPN and the Orlando Sentinel that the situation began when Doncic allegedly said something “really inappropriate” in Serbian about his family, prompting him to respond in kind.

According to his version, the back-and-forth quickly intensified, with both players exchanging words in the heat of the moment rather than letting it go. Referees penalized both players for unsportsmanlike conduct after warnings failed to calm things down.

What is the NBA technical foul limit and how does it work?

The NBA enforces a technical foul threshold that leads to an automatic suspension once a player reaches 16 in a season. It’s part of the NBA’s effort to keep games under control and penalize repeated unsportsmanlike behavior.

From that point on, the system becomes stricter. Every two additional technical fouls results in another one-game suspension, putting players on a tight leash for the remainder of the season.

For high-usage stars, this can become a real concern down the stretch, especially in meaningful games. There is, however, some flexibility. Teams can challenge technical fouls, and if the league rescinds one after review, it’s erased from the total.

“Appreciate everybody reaching out,” Cunningham said, adding a prayer emoji. “Everything happens for a reason. God’s timing never misses. Staying present and taking it day by day. The gets greater later.” It was a delicate moment, especially for Cunningham, who was having what was likely his best season.

After the injury was announced, the NBA world expressed concern and sent prayers to Cunningham, who earned a second All-Star nod amid a strong season for the Pistons. Many also called out the NBA’s 65-game rule for end of season award eligibility, including MVP and All-NBA Team selections, as it could limit opportunities for players who deserve recognition despite absences.

How long will Cunningham be out?

The injury kept Cunningham out of game action for at least two weeks, the Pistons announced in a statement Thursday. “After further testing, Pistons guard Cade Cunningham has been diagnosed with a left lung pneumothorax. Cunningham exited Tuesday’s game vs. the Wizards in the first quarter. He will be re evaluated in two weeks.”

Cunningham’s season

Cunningham had played 61 games to date, and he would fall four games short of qualifying for end of season NBA awards if he missed the remainder of the regular season.

In 61 appearances this season, Cade Cunningham averaged 24.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, 9.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game for the Pistons while shooting 46.1 percent from the field and 34.6 percent from three.

Entering March 20th, the Detroit Pistons had the best record in the Eastern Conference at 50-19. They sat just five games back of the Oklahoma City Thunder for the best overall record in the NBA, and Cade Cunningham had been receiving serious MVP consideration with his team’s performance.

On the other sideline, Stephen Curry is also out for Golden State Warriors with a lingering right knee injury, meaning the team will be without their franchise centerpiece in Detroit.

The coinciding absences of the NBA‘s two biggest stars reshape tonight’s matchup into one defined by depth and role players — and raise big questions about each club’s playoff positioning.

What happened to Cade Cunningham?

Cade Cunningham is out after being diagnosed with a collapsed lung (pneumothorax), a medical condition that will sideline the Detroit Pistons star guard for at least two weeks, according to official team reports.

His absence stems from an injury sustained during gameplay that caused a left lung pneumothorax. While it’s considered a “mild” collapsed lung, the condition still requires careful monitoring, rest and follow‑up evaluations by medical staff.

For one of the elite two‑way threats and a legitimate MVP candidate this season, missing time is a significant blow to Detroit’s rhythm and offensive firepower. The Pistons plan to re‑evaluate his condition after the initial two‑week period.

What happened to Stephen Curry?

Stephen Curry is currently sidelined with a persistent right knee issue, specifically patellofemoral pain syndrome, and has missed a long stretch of games for the Golden State Warriors.

The injury dates back to January 30, 2026, when he left a game early after aggravating his knee against the Pistons. Tests revealed inflammation and bone bruising around the kneecap area, and the star guard has been managed carefully ever since to avoid long‑term damage.

Over the past several weeks he’s missed more than 15 straight games, as the Warriors have opted to hold him out while the knee responds to treatment and rehabilitation.

Their medical staff has been monitoring his progress closely; he’s begun on‑court work and light play, but the team has consistently deferred a return until swelling and discomfort are fully under control.

When will they play again?

Cade Cunningham is expected to be sidelined at least two weeks from March 19, with a re‑evaluation scheduled. Given Detroit’s regular‑season schedule, that timeline suggests a possible mid‑April return if his recovery stays on track.

Stephen Curry does not yet have a firm return date, but current indications from Warriors sources suggest cautious optimism that he could resume playing later in March or early April as he continues rehabilitation.

Golden State’s staff has repeatedly stated that he will be re‑evaluated in coming weeks before any decision on game availability is made, meaning Curry’s return hinges on continued progress and symptom management.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the two‑time All‑Star and centerpiece of the Pistons’ franchise was ruled out after experiencing symptoms late in a recent game and receiving a diagnosis of pneumothorax.

This news comes with the NBA franchise currently holding the best record in the Eastern Conference, making Cunningham’s absence a seismic shift as the season enters its final stretch.

What does it mean to have a collapsed lung?

Cade Cunningham’s collapsed lung is a serious medical condition that will sideline the Pistons star for the near future. A pneumothorax occurs when air escapes from the lung into the chest cavity, causing the lung to partially collapse and making breathing difficult.

For an NBA guard who handles the ball constantly and drives into contact, this translates to an immediate inability to play, and rushing back could risk further lung injury.

The Pistons will prioritize Cunningham’s full recovery over short-term returns, meaning Detroit may need to adjust their rotation and game plan without their franchise centerpiece.

How does a lung collapse?

A collapsed lung can happen either spontaneously or as the result of trauma, and in Cunningham’s case, the exact trigger is still being reviewed. Spontaneous pneumothorax sometimes occurs in otherwise healthy individuals, often due to small air blisters on the lung that rupture.

Trauma-induced cases can stem from collisions, sudden impact or extreme pressure changes — all risks inherent in professional basketball. Understanding the cause is crucial for preventing recurrence and determining whether surgery, drainage, or simple rest is needed.

How long will Cade Cunningham be out?

Recovery for Cade Cunningham is expected to last several weeks, but exact timing will depend on the severity of the collapse. Minor cases can heal in a few weeks with rest and monitoring, while more severe or recurring cases may require surgical intervention and a longer rehab process.

“He’s expected to miss an extended period of time. The Pistons are not quite sure how long it will be. Could be weeks. There is optimism he could be back for the playoffs”, Shams Charania said.

The franchise will carefully monitor his return, balancing the team’s playoff push with his long-term health. Fans should brace for a stretch without their star guard while Detroit adjusts its lineup and strategy.

According to the official NBA injury report as of Saturday afternoon, Cunningham has been ruled out due to a left quadriceps contusion. The injury likely occurred during Thursday’s loss to the San Antonio Spurs, where Cunningham played 39 minutes and finished with 26 points and eight assists.

Cunningham has been the engine for Detroit this season, missing only six games while producing All-NBA caliber numbers. He is currently averaging 25.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 9.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game.

Given that the Pistons face a back-to-back set—traveling to face the Miami Heat tomorrow—the coaching staff opt to rest their star tonight to ensure he is fit for the more challenging matchup in Florida.

Pistons injury report

Beyond Cunningham, the Pistons have several other names on the medical report. Big man Jalen Duren is listed as probable despite dealing with low back spasms; though he has some chances to be in the starting lineup tonight.

However, Detroit will definitely be without Ausar Thompson, who has been ruled out after suffering a right ankle sprain in the opening minutes of the recent Spurs game.

Losing Thompson is a significant blow to the team’s perimeter defense. “Ausar obviously means a lot to us,” head coach J.B. Bickerstaff told reporters following the loss in San Antonio. “What he does defensively, the impact he has—you miss that. We just have to figure out a way collectively to pick it up“.

Some NBA teams have endured stretches where losses accumulated game after game, turning competitive seasons into record-setting slides. These streaks often unfolded amid roster instability and rebuilding efforts that failed to gain traction.

The longest losing streaks reveal more than poor results. They highlight moments when teams struggled to adjust, coaching changes came too late and morale declined as defeats became routine across weeks of regular-season play.

From expansion-era franchises to modern rebuilds, some prolonged downturns remain part of the league’s statistical record, serving as stark reminders of how quickly seasons can unravel when losses refuse to stop.

Which NBA teams have the longest losing streaks?

In NBA history, two franchises sit atop the list for the most consecutive regular-season losses: the Philadelphia 76ers and the Detroit Pistons, each with 28 straight defeats.

Philadelphia’s skid stretched across two seasons, beginning in March 2015 and ending in December 2015, while Detroit’s occurred in the 2023–24 season, tying the all-time mark within one campaign.

Philadelphia’s infamous run came during the height of the club’s “Process” era, a period defined by rebuilding and roster overhaul. After finishing the 2014–15 regular season with a woeful record, the Sixers carried their slide into the next season, ultimately snapping the streak with a 103–91 victory over the Lakers on December 1, 2015.

That prolonged downturn has since become a cautionary tale about extended adversity and franchise strategy. Detroit’s descent in 2023–24 was historic in its own right: the Pistons lost 28 consecutive games in a single season, setting the longest losing streak within one campaign in league history.

Their skid began with a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 30, 2023, and didn’t finally end until December 30, 2023 with a dramatic overtime win over the Toronto Raptors.

Behind these franchise lows, several other teams have also endured notable stretches of defeat. The Cleveland Cavaliers and a 2013–14 iteration of the Sixers each lost 26 straight games, while teams like the Vancouver Grizzlies, Denver Nuggets and Charlotte Bobcats have 23-game losing streaks on their records.

Guard Cade Cunningham has missed the team’s last two games with a hip injury, and he is listed as out for Monday’s matchup against the Indiana Pacers.

Cunningham suffered the injury in an overtime win over the Washington Wizards, where he fell hard on his hip during a drive to the basket. The All-Star guard delivered a massive performance in that game, posting a 46-point triple-double — even if it took him 45 shot attempts to get there.

There is a strong possibility that the Pistons ultimately decide to sit Cunningham tonight, especially considering Detroit has a back-to-back and will face a far tougher opponent in the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday. Detroit, which has won nine straight games, should still be capable of beating the Pacers even if Cunningham does not suit up.

What happened to Cunningham?

Cunningham suffered a hard fall late in the fourth quarter against the Washington Wizards after Cam Whitmore fouled him during a dunk attempt. He briefly went to the locker room, returned to the floor, and finished the fourth quarter and overtime.

He closed the night with a career-high 46 points (on a franchise-record 45 field-goal attempts), 12 rebounds, 11 assists, five steals, and only two turnovers in 45 minutes, leading the Pistons to a 137–135 OT victory.

How both teams arrive

The Detroit Pistons enter the night as leaders of the conference with an 11–2 record, coming off a recent 114–105 win over the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Cup. Detroit has looked like one of the league’s best teams through the early stretch of the season and appears to be a legitimate title contender, strengthened by last year’s playoff experience.

The Indiana Pacers, meanwhile, find themselves in the opposite situation. After coming within one win of reaching the NBA Finals last season, they are now dealing with significant injuries — including to star guard Tyrese Haliburton — which have derailed their momentum and turned them into one of the league’s weakest teams. They sit near the bottom of the standings with a disappointing 2–11 record.

According to the latest official NBA injury report, the Pistons have ruled out Cade Cunningham (left hip contusion) alongisde Jalen Duren (right ankle sprain) for tonight’s game.

The 24-year-old guard was held out of the recent victory against the Bulls because he suffered a hard fall in his last game against the Wizards, a moment that worried fans in Detroit. The franchise decided to rest Cunningham against Chicago and Philadelphia to ensure he could return completely healthy without suffering any setback.

The first pick of the 2021 NBA Draft is undoubtedly the leader for the Pistons, and he is having the best season of his career so far in Detroit. Cunningham leads his team in scoring and assists, averaging 27.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 9.9 assists per contest, making him a critical piece in J.B. Bickerstaff’s system.

Pistons dealing with multiple injuries

Despite dealing with multiple names on the injury report, the Pistons have managed to secure excellent results, which has left them with an impressive 10-2 record.

In addition to the questionable status of Cunningham, Duren, and Stewart, the Detroit teams will be without Tobias Harris (right ankle sprain), Jaden Ivey (right knee arthroscopy), Ausar Thompson (right ankle sprain), and Marcus Sasser (right hip impingement), who are all out for the contest against the 76ers.

On the side of the visiting team, stars Joel Embiid and Paul George will not be present, nor will Jared McCain. Despite rookie VJ Edgecombe (back spasm) was listed as questionable early in the injury report, he will be available for this matchup.