Pistons vs. Pacers: Cade Cunningham’s Playing Status on Thursday

Returning from the 2024 NBA All-Star break, the Detroit Pistons are set to pay a visit to the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night.

Despite getting a week off since their last matchup against the Phoenix Suns, the Pistons had quite a few players on the injury report for their first game back.

Among those listed was the star guard, Cade Cunningham.

Lately, Cunningham’s been managing a left knee injury. Last week, he was in danger of missing the Pistons’ back-to-back against the Phoenix Suns on the road before the break. However, Cunningham was cleared for action.

Checking in for 26 minutes, Cunningham scored 13 points on 45 percent shooting from the field. He tacked on eight assists, four rebounds, one steal, and two blocks during the 16-point loss against the Suns.

While Cunningham remained on the injury report for Detroit’s matchup in Indiana on Thursday, he was probable to play heading into the game. The Pistons officially upgraded him to available, and he’s set to make his 45th appearance this year.

After Cunningham missed Detroit’s February 7 matchup against the Sacramento Kings, he returned in the following game to face the Portland Trail Blazers. Over the last four games, Cunningham has struggled with his shot but averaged 18 points, five rebounds, and eight assists.

At this point in the year, the Pistons are well out of playoff contention. While they understand the circumstances, they still have to remain laser-focused on the development of the former first-overall pick as he remains the face of the Detroit franchise.

The Pistons and the Pacers are set to tip-off at 7 PM ET on Thursday.