Pistons Prove Resilient Without Star Cade Cunningham

Detroit's depth and defense shine as team secures division title and playoff spot

Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:05pm

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The Detroit Pistons have shown remarkable resilience during an 8-game stretch without star player Cade Cunningham. Despite missing their leading scorer, the Pistons have continued to win, including an impressive victory over the Lakers. Key contributors like Daniss Jenkins and Jalen Duren have stepped up, and the team's strong defense has kept them competitive. The Pistons hold a 55-21 record and have clinched the Central Division title, their first since 2008. With Cunningham expected to return for the playoffs, the resilient Pistons could be an even more dangerous team.

Why it matters

The Pistons' ability to win without their star player Cade Cunningham demonstrates the team's depth, defensive prowess, and overall resilience. This bodes well for their playoff chances, as they have shown they can win even when a key player is out. The team's success also marks an important milestone, as they have clinched their first division title in over a decade.

The details

During the 8-game stretch without Cunningham, the Pistons have continued to win, including a 113-110 victory over the Lakers. Guard Daniss Jenkins has been a standout, scoring 30 points and hitting the game-winning shot against the Lakers. Rookie center Jalen Duren has also stepped up, scoring at least 20 points in 6 games. The Pistons' strong defense, with players like Ausar Thompson, Ron Holland, and Javonte Green recording multiple steals, has been crucial to their success.

  • The Pistons have won 8 games without Cade Cunningham, who has been out with an injury.
  • On March 23, 2026, the Pistons defeated the Lakers 113-110.

The players

Cade Cunningham

The Pistons' star player who is expected to return for the playoffs after missing the last 8 games.

Daniss Jenkins

A key contributor for the Pistons during Cunningham's absence, scoring 30 points and hitting the game-winning shot against the Lakers.

Jalen Duren

The rookie center has been dominant in the paint, scoring at least 20 points in 6 games without Cunningham.

Ausar Thompson

One of the Pistons' defensive standouts, recording at least 2 steals in a game during the team's recent stretch.

Ron Holland

Another Pistons player who has contributed to the team's strong defensive efforts, recording multiple steals.

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What’s next

Once Cade Cunningham returns from injury, the Pistons will look to build on their balanced team approach and strong defensive play as they prepare for the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Detroit Pistons' ability to win without their star player Cade Cunningham demonstrates the team's depth, defensive prowess, and overall resilience. This bodes well for their playoff chances, as they have shown they can win even when a key player is out, and with Cunningham's expected return, the Pistons could be an even more dangerous team in the postseason.