Pistons’ Cade Cunningham nearing return from collapsed lung

Cade Cunningham was upgraded to uncertain to play in Monday night time’s 123-107 Orlando Magic earlier than being dominated out, signaling the Detroit Pistons‘All-Star level guard may very well be nearing a return with the playoffs quick approaching.

Cunningham has been out since March 19 whereas recovering from a collapsed left lung however has entered a return to play protocol.

Isaiah Stewart, who has been out since March 15 with a left calf pressure, was additionally elevated to uncertain earlier than being dominated out Monday.

“Both of them are progressing. They are doing more and more each day,” coach JB Bickerstaff stated. “With both of these things, it is always about how you respond the next day. I don’t want to jump out there and say anything, but so far, so good. They are taking steps in the right direction.”

After Monday’s loss, the Pistons have three video games remaining within the common season. There is optimism each Cunningham and Stewart might be again within the lineup earlier than the playoffs start, in line with Bickerstaff.

The Pistons have thrived regardless of Cunningham’s absence, clinching the No. 1 general seed within the Eastern Conference with a win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday.

Before the damage, Cunningham was in MVP talks after averaging 24.5 factors and 9.9 assists for probably the most dominant workforce within the East.