Pistons' Cade Cunningham to Return Against Heat

Rookie Ausar Thompson ruled out as Pistons take on Miami

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Detroit Pistons will have star rookie Cade Cunningham back in the lineup as they take on the Miami Heat, but fellow first-round pick Ausar Thompson has been ruled out due to injury.

Why it matters

Cunningham's return is a major boost for the Pistons as they look to build momentum and make a push for the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. The team has struggled with injuries this season, so getting their top draft pick back on the court is crucial.

The details

Cunningham, the first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, has missed several games due to an ankle injury. He is expected to provide a much-needed scoring punch and playmaking ability for the Pistons against the Heat. However, the team will be without Thompson, their 2023 first-round selection, who is sidelined with his own injury.

  • Cade Cunningham is set to return on Wednesday, March 8, 2026 against the Miami Heat.

The players

Cade Cunningham

The first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Cunningham is a rising star for the Detroit Pistons.

Ausar Thompson

The Pistons' 2023 first-round draft selection, Thompson has been ruled out due to injury.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to have Cade back on the floor. He's a huge part of what we're trying to build here, and his presence will give us a big boost against a tough Miami team.”

— Dwane Casey, Head Coach, Detroit Pistons (Detroit Free Press)

What’s next

The Pistons will look to build on Cunningham's return as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

The Pistons' season has been defined by injuries, so getting their star rookie Cade Cunningham back on the court is a crucial development as they look to make a late-season surge and secure a postseason berth.