What Detroit Pistons’ Resilience Without Cade Cunningham Means for NBA Playoffs

No Cade Cunningham. Still No. 1 in the East. What’s behind the Pistons’ resilience without their star?

Nov 12, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) watches the game from the bench during the second quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images | David Reginek-Imagn Images

Losing a star player for an extended period of time could break any team, but not the Detroit Pistons. If the last eight games without Cade Cunningham had to be described in one word, it would be this: resilient. 

One remarkable display of resilience throughout this stretch was a win over the Los Angeles Lakers. Some may have doubted the Pistons without Cade Cunningham, especially against a Lakers squad that entered Little Caesars Arena fresh off a nine-game winning streak. But Detroit’s resiliency could not be overlooked. 

Daniss Jenkins has been a major boost for the team. His heroics against the Lakers included 30 points and the game-winning shot in the 113-110 victory. Performances like this have shown that this roster is filled with depth, with players stepping up in big-time moments. It wouldn’t be surprising if Jenkins hears his number called a lot throughout the postseason. 

Mar 23, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Los Angeles Lakers Jake LaRavia (12) defends against Detroit Pistons Daniss Jenkins (24) during the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images | David Reginek-Imagn Images

Jalen Duren has also been a dynamic powerhouse. In six games without Cunningham, he’s scored at least 20 points. His energy and dominance in the paint have been crucial in maintaining their top seed in the Eastern Conference. 

Responding to Adversity

While the Pistons’ resilience has contributed to their success, it also was also clear in how they battled against the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Even though theycame up short, they fought hard and pushed the game into overtime while missing four starters. Much of this resilience is rooted in their strong defense.

Three Pistons, including Ausar Thompson, Ron Holland, and Javonte Green recorded at least two steals in that game. Efforts like these are a reason why Detroit continues to rank among the league’s best defensive teams, and consistently having this level of play will mean a lot to close out these final games and into the playoffs. 

Feb 19, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Ausar Thompson (9) dribbles up court against the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Cunningham’s Return

Once Cade Cunningham is back on the floor running the offense, it would be rewarding for the Pistons, as they may benefit from players that have grown more involved in the system and are comfortable in their roles.

Mar 10, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Overall, they've become a more balanced team which will be critical in the postseason where every possession matters, and wins will depend on a collective effort.

The Pistons hold a 55-21 record and have secured the Central Division title, Detroit’s first since 2008. They'll look to finish the final six games strong before shifting their focus, and there is plenty of optimism that Cade Cunningham will be back in uniform for the playoffs, making an already resilient team even more dangerous.