Pistons' Postseason Hopes Hinge on Cade Cunningham

Concerns linger over Detroit's roster depth and secondary scoring options

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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With the NBA playoffs approaching, questions are being raised about whether the Detroit Pistons have done enough to build a roster capable of supporting star player Cade Cunningham and making a deep postseason run.

Why it matters

The Pistons have been rebuilding around Cunningham, the former No. 1 overall pick, but their lack of consistent secondary scoring options and overall roster depth could limit their playoff ceiling despite Cunningham's individual brilliance.

The details

The Pistons made a notable move at the trade deadline by acquiring Kevin Huerter, but some wonder if they should have done more to surround Cunningham with proven scoring threats. Detroit's roster lacks a clear second option behind Cunningham, raising concerns about their ability to win high-stakes playoff games.

  • The NBA playoffs are set to begin in April 2026.

The players

Cade Cunningham

The Pistons' star player and former No. 1 overall draft pick, who is expected to lead the team's playoff push.

Kevin Huerter

A veteran shooting guard acquired by the Pistons at the trade deadline to provide additional scoring support.

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What they’re saying

“We came from the bottom, and we're still trying to climb our way up. Cade is the centerpiece, but we need more around him to really make some noise in the playoffs.”

— Anonymous Pistons player (wn.com)

What’s next

The Pistons will look to address their roster needs in the offseason to better support Cade Cunningham and make a deeper playoff run in 2027.

The takeaway

The Pistons' postseason hopes rest heavily on Cade Cunningham's ability to carry the team, but their lack of consistent secondary scoring options could limit their playoff ceiling unless they make further roster improvements in the offseason.