Pistons Downgrade Cade Cunningham vs. Memphis Grizzlies

Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham could miss Monday's matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Dec 6, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard John Konchar (46) strips the ball from | Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Lately, the Detroit Pistons have dealt with numerous setbacks as the season winds down. Monday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies won’t be any different, as the Pistons could potentially play without their star guard, Cade Cunningham.

According to the Pistons’ injury report, Cunningham is listed as questionable due to knee injury management.

Cunningham’s presence on the injury report is nothing new as of late. Knowing they won’t be making a playoff push at this point in the season, the Pistons are searching for a balance between keeping their star guard going and improving while maintaining his health.

For the most part, Cunningham has avoided down the stretch of the season. Since the Pistons returned to the court from the All-Star break, Cunningham has just three absences. Recently, the standout guard missed back-to-back games on March 24 and the 25th.

During the Pistons’ matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves last week, Cunningham returned to the court for a 28-minute shift. In the 15-point loss against the Western Conference contenders, Cunningham drained 48 percent of his shots from the field and seven of his eight free throws. He wrapped up the loss with 32 points.

In the Pistons’ most recent outing against the Washington Wizards, Cunningham was cleared for action. He checked in for 37 minutes. While he struggled to shoot efficiently on 33 shots, Cunningham scored 33 points while collecting eight rebounds, and producing seven assists to help lead the Pistons to a nine-point win.

On Monday, the Pistons will search for a second-straight victory for the first time since March 13. With or without Cunningham, the Pistons will be shorthanded as they have a crowded injury report ahead of the 7 PM matchup.