Pistons Star Cade Cunningham Reportedly Expected To Miss 'extended Period Of Time' With Collapsed Lung

Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham is reportedly expected to miss an “extended period of time” after sustaining a collapsed lung, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The 24-year-old is in the midst of yet another strong season, averaging 24.5 points and 9.9 assists per game. Thanks to his contributions, the Pistons are 49-19 entering play Thursday, good enough to lead the Eastern Conference.

A timetable for Cunningham’s return was not given, though Charania added “there is some optimism” Cunningham could make it back during the playoffs. The Pistons have just 14 regular-season games left before the NBA postseason.

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It’s unclear exactly when Cunningham sustained the injury, though he had to leave Tuesday’s game after falling to the floor trying to pick up a loose ball. Cunningham was originally diagnosed with back spasms after leaving that game.

Following the contest, Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff declined to provide more specifics regarding Cunningham’s injury, saying, “I don’t have enough information.”

The injury could prove costly in a number of ways. Losing Cunningham for multiple games would obviously hurt the Pistons, who have played like championship contenders when Cunningham is on the floor.

The issue could also hurt Cunningham individually. Cunningham was on pace to receive MVP votes and potentially make the All-NBA team for the second-straight season. But the fifth-year pro has played in just 61 games this season. In order to be eligible for year-end awards, NBA players have to take part in at least 65 games.

Unless Cunningham can make it back in time to play in four more regular-season games, it seems likely he’ll be ineligible for those honors due to the injury.