Pistons Injury Update: Is Cade Cunningham Returning Tonight vs Wizards After Missing 8 Previous Games?

Cade Cunningham had been the Detroit Pistons’ shining star this season until his unfortunate injury on Jan 8, 2024, against the Denver Nuggets. After playing just 11 minutes, Cunningham left the court as he sustained a knee strain. While he avoided a serious injury, he has missed the past eight games in recuperation. Although he was listed as out till now, per the latest report, the point guard has been bumped to available as the Detroit Pistons face the Washington Wizards for the third time this season at the Little Caesars Arena.

The two teams have a previous record of being 1-1 this regular season, and it will be interesting to see how this game unfolds between the two last-placed teams of the Eastern Conference. With the 36 games that Cunningham played, he leads the points, assists, and steals lists with 22.8 points, 7.2 assists, and 1.0 steals. Given how abysmal the Pistons’ season has been, Cunningham was their only saving grace with his excellent performances.

Cade Cunningham was replaced by Killian Hayes, who is currently averaging 7.1 points with 2.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists. The 22-year-old has been unable to fill the gaping void left by the star point guard. This makes Cunningham’s return much more crucial despite going into the tip-off on a positive note, having won their last game against the Charlotte Hornets. The biggest reason for their victories during his absence was because they were against other weak teams in the Eastern Conference. With him suiting up, another win is likely for the Pistons.

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Regardless of a win, it cannot be denied that the Detroit Pistons have been having an unfortunate season. They even hold the record for the longest losing streak (28 games) in the history of the NBA. With a record of 5-39, the Pistons are in their losing era. But there is still hope to bring home some wins and save face. Coming to today’s game, the Pistons have the advantage of playing in front of their home crowd. This gives them the chance to field a strong lineup to ensure a positive result.

Predicted lineups: Detroit Pistons vs Washington Wizards

The Washington Wizards go into the game against the Detroit Pistons in abysmal form. They are currently on a six-game losing streak, and their performances have suggested there’s little hope for improvement this season. However, with Kyle Kuzma, Jordan Poole, and Tyus Jones, the Wizards possess some quality. They could start the game with Tyus Jones, Jordan Poole, Kyle Kuzma, Deni Avdija, and Daniel Gafford.

For the Detroit Pistons, veteran Bojan Bogdanović’s 34-point performance proved instrumental in their previous victory, and he could be the key for Detroit against the Wizards. Given the circumstances, they could begin the game with Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Bojan Bogdanović, Isaiah Stewart, and Jalen Duren.

Do you think the Detroit Pistons can take home another victory? Let us know in the comments!

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