Cade Cunningham Leaves Early With Back Spasms; Status Uncertain
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DETROIT — Detroit Pistons All-Star guard Cade Cunningham exited Tuesday night’s home game against the Washington Wizards in the first quarter after experiencing back spasms.
Cunningham asked to be replaced with 6:40 left in the opening period, shortly after colliding with Wizards rookie Tre Johnson while both chased a loose ball. The 22-year-old did not return, and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff offered no timetable for his availability.
Despite the loss of their leading scorer, the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons beat the lottery-bound Wizards 130-117 behind a career-best 36 points from fellow All-Star Jalen Duren.
Playoff Push Complicated
Cunningham is averaging 24.5 points, 9.9 rebounds and 5.6 assists. He must appear in at least four more contests to satisfy the NBA’s 65-game requirement for major individual awards. Detroit has 14 regular-season games remaining.
Backcourt Options If Cunningham Sits
Should Cunningham miss additional time, Bickerstaff said Marcus Sasser and Daniss Jenkins will handle point-guard duties. The duo combined for 24 points and 11 assists Tuesday.
“We’ve dealt with a lot this season and had to call on different guys throughout the year,” Bickerstaff noted.
Injury Concerns Pile Up
Earlier Tuesday the club ruled reserve forward Isaiah Stewart out for at least one week with a strained calf.
What’s Next
Detroit faces Washington again Thursday at Capital One Arena, then starts a four-game homestand Friday against Golden State.
Source: Hoops Rumors
