The Detroit Pistons are riding high after a strong road win over the Pelicans, but they might have to do it again without their floor general, Cade Cunningham.
Cunningham, who was just named a starter for the 2026 All-Star Game, is officially listed as questionable for Friday night’s home matchup against the Houston Rockets. He’s dealing with a left hip contusion and an illness - the same combination that kept him out of Detroit’s win in New Orleans earlier this week.
That said, there’s a glimmer of optimism: Cunningham was seen participating in the team’s morning shootaround at their New Center practice facility. That’s usually a good sign, but nothing’s guaranteed until tipoff.
The Pistons have already been without their star guard for six games this season, and while they’ve managed to stay afloat, there’s no question that Cunningham’s presence changes the dynamic on both ends of the floor. His vision, control of pace, and ability to create in tight spaces are central to how Detroit wants to play - especially against a young, athletic Rockets team that thrives in transition.
The injury report doesn’t stop with Cunningham. Caris LeVert is listed as doubtful with an illness, which kept him out of the win over New Orleans as well.
LeVert, a key piece off the bench and a Michigan product, has now missed 11 games this season. His ability to provide secondary scoring and veteran composure has been missed when he’s not in the rotation.
On the more encouraging side, both Ron Holland and Duncan Robinson are probable for Friday’s game. Holland, also dealing with an illness, has shown flashes of his athletic upside in recent weeks.
Robinson, nursing a lower back sprain, brings floor spacing that’s crucial when Cunningham or LeVert are sidelined. His ability to stretch defenses opens up driving lanes and gives the Pistons’ offense a different dimension.
Despite the bumps and bruises, Detroit is putting together one of its most impressive seasons in recent memory. At 32-10, they’ve posted the second-best start in franchise history - a mark that speaks to the balance and depth this roster has developed. Their 112-104 win over the Pelicans was a testament to that depth, with multiple players stepping up in Cunningham’s absence.
As they prepare to host Houston, the Pistons are navigating the typical midseason grind - managing injuries, illnesses, and the weight of expectations. But if this group has shown anything so far, it’s that they’re built to weather storms.
Whether Cunningham suits up or not, Detroit has the pieces to keep rolling. But make no mistake: having their All-Star back on the floor would be a big boost.