Cade Cunningham Suffers Collapsed Lung, Pistons Face Playoff Uncertainty

Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham will be re-evaluated in two weeks after being diagnosed with a collapsed left lung, an injury sustained during Tuesday night’s game against the Washington Wizards. The injury casts a shadow over the Pistons’ promising season and Cunningham’s MVP aspirations.

Injury Details and Timeline

Cunningham was injured early in the first quarter while diving for a loose ball and colliding with Wizards guard Tre Johnson. He initially remained in the game for a few minutes before being removed at the 6:40 mark. The team later announced he would not return. According to ESPN reporter Shams Charania, the diagnosis is a collapsed left lung, considered benign .

Impact on Pistons’ Playoff Push

The Pistons (49-16 as of March 19, 2026) currently hold the top seed in the Eastern Conference, 3.5 games ahead of the Boston Celtics (46-23). Cunningham’s absence presents a significant challenge as they navigate the remaining 14 games of the regular season. Jalen Duren stepped up in Cunningham’s absence during Tuesday’s game, contributing 36 points and 12 rebounds in a 130-117 victory over the Wizards .

MVP Candidacy in Jeopardy

Cunningham is averaging 25 points, 10 assists, and 5.6 rebounds this season, placing him among the leaders in the NBA MVP race. However, NBA rules require players to participate in at least 65 regular season games to be eligible for major individual awards. Having already played in 61 games, Cunningham’s two-week re-evaluation period will likely sideline him for at least seven additional games, potentially jeopardizing his eligibility .

Competition for MVP

Cunningham joins other MVP contenders – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, Nikola Jokic, and Luka Doncic – who have also faced challenges staying on the court for the majority of the season. The race for MVP may ultimately come down to which player can remain healthy for the remainder of the regular season.

Looking Ahead

The Detroit Pistons will need to rely on other key players, such as Jalen Duren, to maintain their position in the Eastern Conference standings during Cunningham’s absence. His recovery and return to the court will be crucial as the team prepares for the playoffs, which initiate on April 18th.