Cade Cunningham, the star guard for the Detroit Pistons, is facing uncertainty ahead of his team's upcoming matchup against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. The former first overall pick has been listed as questionable for the game due to calf soreness, a condition that kept him out of Sunday's victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.
Cunningham's absence has raised concerns within the Pistons camp, especially given his remarkable performance this season, where he averages an impressive 25.7 points, 9.1 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game. His 32.1% usage rate is currently ranked ninth in the NBA, reflecting his crucial role in the Pistons' offense. Earlier this season, he earned his first All-Star selection, which underscores his significant contribution to the team's resurgence as they currently hold the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference after finishing dead last last season.
Alongside Cunningham, fellow Pistons player Tim Hardaway Jr. is also listed as questionable due to an ankle injury. The absence of both players could lead to reshuffles in the lineup, primarily benefiting Dennis Schroder, who is expected to step into the starting role if Cunningham remains sidelined.
In the previous game, Schroder made a strong case for his ability to fill the gap, scoring 16 points while contributing five assists and one rebound in 34 minutes of play. His performance, which yielded 28.75 fantasy points, showcased his potential as a key player against the Spurs' defense, which has struggled recently, ranking 26th in defensive rating since the All-Star break.
Additionally, the Pistons will likely see increased productivity from Jalen Duren, Malik Beasley, and Tobias Harris if Cunningham and Hardaway are unable to play. Duren, in particular, emerged as a standout player during the last game, leading the team with a 27% usage rate in Cunningham's absence. The center scored 22 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and provided two assists, resulting in a noteworthy 40 fantasy points.
This season, the Pistons have navigated through difficulties with a 3-3 record in games where Cunningham was inactive, illustrating their ability to adapt when key players are sidelined. Nevertheless, the team is hoping for a quick recovery for Cunningham, as his influence extends beyond statistics—his leadership on the court has been a vital element in the team's turnaround.
The stakes are high as the Pistons prepare to face the Spurs, with both teams looking to solidify their playoff positions. As fans await further updates on Cunningham's status, there is a mixture of hope and tension surrounding the team's prospects. Will Cunningham recover in time to lead his team to victory, or will the Pistons continue to showcase their depth without their star guard? Only time will tell, but the excitement surrounding this matchup is palpable as both teams strive for playoff contention.
