Cunningham exits early
The Detroit Pistons beat the Wizards 130–115 — but Cade Cunningham left early with back spasms, an abrupt injury scare for Detroit's floor leader in a high-scoring win (x.com) (x.com).
Cunningham dove for a loose ball and collided with Wizards rookie Tre Johnson, grimaced on the floor and was removed after a stoppage with 6:40 left in the first quarter before heading straight to the locker room. (nba.com) He logged roughly five minutes and finished the night with six points, two rebounds and one steal. (espn.com) The team initially described the issue as back spasms that night, then listed him on the official injury report as having a left back contusion after he did not practice Wednesday and ruled him out for the March 19 rematch in Washington, D.C. (rotowire.com) In Cunningham’s absence, Jalen Duren erupted for a career-high 36 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to carry the Pistons through the game. (cbssports.com) Detroit has frequently turned to Daniss Jenkins to absorb lead-guard minutes when Cunningham has missed time; Jenkins has averaged about 14.8 points and 7.0 assists in starts this season, per team reporting. (espn.com) The Pistons’ official recap framed the night as one the roster “regrouped and handled,” noting the collision and quick exit but emphasizing the team response after Cunningham left. (nba.com)
