Jalen Duren isn’t letting NBA eligibility rules dim the shine of his teammate’s historic campaign. Cade Cunningham’s heartbreaking collapsed lung (pneumothorax) has kept him off the hardwood since March 18, and he is likely to miss the remainder of the regular season. As a result, Cunningham will fall short of the 65-game eligibility requirement, costing him All-NBA and Clutch Player of the Year honors.

The Pistons have five games left to play, and Cunningham’s game tally stands at 61. Despite the dismal news, Duren declared the 24-year-old’s All-Star–caliber performance throughout the 2025–26 campaign a testament to his brilliance.

“I think it speaks for itself. I mean, obviously, it’s tough that he won’t, uh, be eligible to qualify, but I think the world knows and everybody’s seen it,” Duren said. “You know, he’s easily a top-three MVP candidate if he’s on the floor, easily first team All‑NBA. Like, he’s easily probably the Clutch Player of the Year; he gets all the awards.

“So I think what he’s done is already kind of cemented. I mean, if you watch basketball this season, you’ve seen it. Um, so I mean, the rules are in place for a reason. I think it’s just… It’s just tough. It’s just tough. But I think you can’t deny what he’s done.”

Duren’s passionate defense underscores not just loyalty, but the undeniable impact a star can leave even when the award ballot doesn’t reflect it. At the time of the injury, Cunningham was averaging 24.5 points, 9.9 assists (2nd in NBA), and 5.6 rebounds per game.

Detroit announced earlier this week that Cade Cunningham will be re‑evaluated in one week (around April 8), with the team noting he’s progressing well under medical supervision. However, he’s not cleared for full basketball activities at this point in his rehabilitation yet.

Prior reports from ESPN insider Shams Charania indicated internal optimism for a mid‑April return. The best-case scenario could see Cunningham’s comeback potentially aligning with the playoffs. The latest reports indicate he’s begun lightweight‑room work after about two weeks of recovery. If he’s lucky and avoids any complications, he will be playing alongside Duren & Co. with a chip on his shoulder in the postseason.

Pistons firing on all cylinders despite Cade Cunningham’s absence

When Cunningham left the court last month in the game against the Washington Wizards, Detroit Pistons fans were left devastated. Their concern stemmed from the belief that popular opinion suggested J. B. Bickerstaff’s team was overly reliant on their star point guard.

But Detroit has been flying high, going 7-2 since March 18. Their two losses have come against the in-form Atlanta Hawks and reigning champions Oklahoma City Thunder. The Pistons were without Jalen Duren and Cunningham against OKC but still managed to take the game to OT, losing ultimately by a narrow 110-114 scoreline.

Duren, in particular, has shouldered the offensive responsibility in his teammate’s absence. Since Cunningham’s been out, he’s averaging 24.6 points (+5.3 from his average), 10.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists (+1.1).

They have two competitive games coming up against the Philadelphia 76ers and the Orlando Magic, respectively. But they will end their campaign with likely winnable games against the underperforming Milwaukee Bucks, the Charlotte Hornets, and the struggling Indiana Pacers.

Detroit’s resilience without Cunningham proves they’re built for the long haul. However, rival fans are well aware that his potential return could elevate them from contenders to champions.

Whether Cade steps back onto the court or watches from the sideline, his shadow looms large. The 24-year-old’s leadership and All-Star impact have already set the tone for a team that’s punching above its weight. The Pistons are ready to make a deep postseason statement.