Cade Cunningham Rallies Pistons Fans Ahead of Playoffs

Detroit star returns from collapsed lung injury to close out regular season

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:36pm

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Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham posted a heartfelt message to his one million Instagram followers ahead of the team's final regular season game, with NBA fans responding enthusiastically to the All-Star's return from a collapsed lung injury sustained in late March. Despite missing several games, Cunningham is expected to play in the season finale as the Pistons prepare for their second straight playoff run.

Why it matters

Cunningham's return is a major boost for the Pistons, who clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The 24-year-old guard was having an MVP-caliber season prior to his injury, and his presence will be crucial as Detroit aims to capture its first NBA championship in over two decades.

The details

Cunningham has made 63 appearances this season, averaging 24.2 points, 9.8 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game while shooting 46.3% from the field and 34.4% from three-point range. He is expected to be in the running for an All-NBA selection, though he may fall short of the 65-game eligibility requirement. Nonetheless, Cunningham is focused on leading the Pistons deep into the playoffs after averaging 25.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 8.7 assists in the postseason last year.

  • Cunningham suffered a collapsed lung in late March 2026.
  • The Pistons' final regular season game is on April 12, 2026.
  • Cunningham is expected to play in the season finale despite his recent injury.

The players

Cade Cunningham

A 24-year-old All-Star guard for the Detroit Pistons who is returning from a collapsed lung injury to lead his team into the playoffs.

Detroit Pistons

An NBA franchise based in Detroit, Michigan that has clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference for the 2026 playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“MVP MVP MVP🔥🔥.”

— insidethe_bactcave, NBA Fan

“Cade, I speak for the ENTIRE STATE, when I say it's good to have you BACK! Now let's get this CHIP FOR DETROIT!”

— plofficial, NBA Fan

What’s next

The Pistons will face the winner of the play-in tournament in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, with Cunningham leading the charge as they aim to capture the franchise's first championship since 2004.

The takeaway

Cade Cunningham's return from injury is a major boost for the Pistons as they enter the playoffs as the top seed in the East. His leadership and all-around play will be crucial in Detroit's quest to end its 22-year championship drought and cement Cunningham's status as one of the league's elite players.