Pistons' Team Chemistry Shines in Cade Cunningham's Return

Detroit defeats Milwaukee 137-111 as Cunningham, Stewart make long-awaited comebacks.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:35pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in progress, with the players' forms broken down into overlapping, angular shapes in a vibrant color palette, capturing the dynamic action of the sport.Cade Cunningham's return to the court sparks a high-energy Pistons victory over the Bucks, showcasing the team's depth and chemistry.Today in Detroit

In his first game back from a collapsed lung, Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham scored 13 points, dished out 10 assists, and grabbed 5 rebounds to lead his team to a 137-111 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Cunningham's return, along with the comeback of teammate Isaiah Stewart, highlighted the Pistons' impressive team chemistry as seven players scored in double figures, including a 21-point, 9-rebound performance from Jalen Duren.

Why it matters

The Pistons have proven all season that they are more than just a one-star team, as they've managed to stay competitive even during Cunningham's 11-game absence. This latest win over the Bucks showcases Detroit's depth and balanced scoring attack, which could be a key factor as they make a run at the NBA championship.

The details

In addition to Cunningham's strong outing, Isaiah Stewart also returned from a calf injury to score 8 points on perfect 3-of-3 shooting. The Pistons had seven players score in double figures, led by Jalen Duren's 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists. Duncan Robinson (20 points) and Ronald Holland II (18 points) also had impressive performances as Detroit knocked down 14 three-pointers and shot 47% from beyond the arc - a significant improvement for a team that has struggled with outside shooting this season.

  • Cade Cunningham's first game back from his collapsed lung was on Wednesday night (April 9, 2026).
  • Isaiah Stewart returned from his calf injury in the same game on Wednesday (April 9, 2026).

The players

Cade Cunningham

The star point guard of the Detroit Pistons, who missed 11 games due to a collapsed lung but returned to the lineup on Wednesday night.

Isaiah Stewart

The Pistons' starting center, who also returned from a calf injury in the same game as Cunningham on Wednesday.

Jalen Duren

The Pistons' young center who led the team with 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists in the win over the Bucks.

Duncan Robinson

The Pistons' sharpshooting guard who scored 20 points and helped Detroit's improved three-point shooting.

Ronald Holland II

The Pistons' forward who contributed 18 points off the bench in the victory.

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What they’re saying

“We've proved all season that we're more than just one star player. Tonight's win shows the depth and balance we have on this team.”

— Cade Cunningham, Pistons Point Guard

What’s next

The Pistons will look to reach the 60-win mark for the first time since the 2005-06 season when they face the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night.

The takeaway

The Pistons' impressive team chemistry and balanced scoring attack, even without their star player Cade Cunningham, has been a key factor in their success this season. With Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart now back in the lineup, Detroit has the potential to make a deep playoff run and challenge for an NBA championship.