Cade Cunningham Out 2 Weeks with Collapsed Lung, Award Eligibility in Jeopardy

Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham was diagnosed with a collapsed lung following a collision during Tuesday's game against the Washington Wizards, sidelining the All-Star for at least two weeks and jeopardizing his eligibility for major postseason awards.

The injury occurred when Cunningham absorbed a blow to the ribs from Wizards rookie Tre Johnson while diving for a loose ball. He left the game wincing in pain but initially continued playing before the severity became apparent. The Pistons announced the diagnosis Thursday, stating he would be reevaluated in two weeks. To avoid risks from air pressure changes on the team's flight, Cunningham made an eight-hour car ride back to Detroit, approximately 530 miles, just before tipoff against the Wizards.

Cunningham, the 2021 No. 1 overall pick, has been the driving force behind the Pistons' surprising 50-19 record, which has them atop the Eastern Conference standings. Averaging 24.5 points, 9.9 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 46.1 percent from the field, he entered the season with MVP buzz and was a lock for All-NBA honors. However, with only 61 games played, he falls short of the NBA's 65-game...