Cade Cunningham to Miss Third Straight Game With Calf Injury

DETROIT, Mich. — Cade Cunningham, the Detroit Pistons‘ All-Star guard, will miss his third consecutive game due to a bruised calf, the team confirmed on Friday, March 28, 2025, ahead of their matchup against the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers.

Cunningham sustained the injury during the Pistons’ recent game against the Dallas Mavericks on March 21. He has been officially listed as day to day, leaving fans and analysts hoping for a swift recovery as the team prepares for the upcoming playoffs.

In the loss to Dallas, Cunningham played 38 minutes, scoring 35 points and recording six assists and seven rebounds. He experienced discomfort in his left calf that led to him being a late scratch for the subsequent game against the New Orleans Pelicans and missing Tuesday’s victory over the San Antonio Spurs.

Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff expressed hope for Cunningham’s recovery, noting that “it’s one of those things where we have to let it heal.” The Pistons have managed to secure back-to-back wins without him, but the challenge intensifies with the high-stakes encounter against the 58-14 Cavaliers.

This season has marked a significant turnaround for the Pistons, who have gone from holding the league’s worst record to competing for home-court advantage in the playoffs. Last season, they set a record with 28 straight losses and finished with only 14 victories. In contrast, they have already clinched more wins than their past two seasons combined, showcasing a considerable improvement.

As they aim to protect their position in the playoff race — currently occupying the fifth seed — the Pistons are hopeful to avoid a play-in tournament spot. Cunningham’s performance has been critical to this success, as he averages 25.7 points, 9.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds. With his eligibility for postseason awards and All-NBA voting now secured, his return could significantly bolster the Pistons’ chances.

The team is expected to play the Timberwolves on Sunday, March 30, and while Cunningham’s return remains uncertain, the Pistons continue to build on the momentum gained from their recent victories.