Cade Cunningham remains questionable for the Detroit Pistons‘ critical matchup against the Atlanta Hawks on November 18, 2025. The star guard has missed three consecutive games due to a left hip contusion. The 7:30 PM ET road game comes during Detroit’s scorching 10-game winning streak. Cunningham’s status could reshape the contest against Atlanta.
MMCRU faces unbeaten Saint Ansgar for first state title in program history
High Point faces undefeated UIC in Boardwalk Battle showdown, Panthers favored
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Cunningham is averaging 27.5 PPG in 14 games played.
- He posted a 46-point career-high vs Washington Wizards on Nov. 10.
- The Pistons are 12-2 and leading the Eastern Conference.
- Detroit won 10 straight, their best since 2007-08.
- Ausar Thompson and Tobias Harris are also questionable vs Atlanta.
What Happened to Cade Cunningham?
Cunningham suffered a hard fall during the fourth quarter against Washington on Nov. 10, 2025. The incident occurred after Cam Whitmore fouled him during a dunk attempt. Despite the tumble, Cunningham returned and finished that game. He recorded a 46-point performance with 12 rebounds and 11 assists.
Chelsea faces Barcelona in heavyweight UEFA Women’s Champions League clash at Stamford Bridge
Chelsea battles Barcelona in must-win Women’s Champions League clash at Stamford Bridge
The injury didn’t show immediate severity. However, the hip contusion lingered longer than expected. Cunningham was listed as questionable on Nov. 17 against the Pacers but was ruled out before tipoff. He’s now missed three straight games.
“Cunningham has missed three-straight games with a left hip contusion.”
Why This Matters for the Pistons
Detroit entered Nov. 18 riding a franchise-best 10-game winning streak. The team is 12-2 and sits atop the East. Cunningham’s absence has tested their depth significantly.
Without their star, the Pistons still dominated. Jalen Duren delivered 31 points and 15 rebounds on efficient shooting against Indiana on Nov. 17. Detroit won that game 127-112, extending the streak. The team is clearly capable of winning without Cunningham, but his return would boost championship aspirations significantly.
Cunningham’s Elite Season Performance
The Pistons star has been phenomenal when healthy this 2024-25 season. In 14 games, Cunningham is averaging 27.5 points, 9.9 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game. His shooting splits show 43.6% from the field and 28.8% from three-point range.
| Stat | 2024-25 Average | Games Played | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 27.5 | 14 | Questionable |
| Assists Per Game | 9.9 | 14 | Questonable |
| Rebounds Per Game | 5.4 | 14 | Questionable |
| Field Goal % | 43.6% | 14 | Questionable |
What’s Next for Detroit vs Atlanta?
The Pistons will face a Hawks team sitting at 9-5 heading into Nov. 18. Atlanta has talent with Trae Young and Clint Capela leading the way. However, Detroit remains heavily favored despite potential injuries.
- If Cunningham plays: Pistons gain their dynamic scorer and playmaker back.
- If Cunningham sits: Daniss Jenkins likely starts at point guard again.
- Jalen Duren’s return from injury has bolstered interior defense significantly.
- The team’s 10-game streak is their longest in 17 years.
- Winning without key pieces demonstrates roster versatility.
Will Cade Cunningham Return Tuesday Against Atlanta?
The decision comes down to medical clearance and Cunningham’s preference. Hip contusions typically require 7-10 days of recovery. He suffered his injury on Nov. 10, meaning Nov. 18 marks eight days of rest.
Detroit’s coaching staff must balance urgency with caution. Missing the Hawks contest won’t derail their East-leading position. However, getting their star healthy and confident matters more. The team is thriving without him, but having Cunningham back elevates championship expectations.
Watch for an update closer to Nov. 18 tipoff. The NBA typically announces final roster decisions 90 minutes before game time. Will Cunningham suit up?
Sources
- Detroit Free Press – Pistons injury report updates and game coverage
- NBA.com – Official NBA injury reports and statistics
- ESPN – Game schedules, player stats, and injury tracking
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.