Cade Cunningham Ruled Out Friday with Hip Issue; Pistons' Offensive Future Hinges on Year 4 Growth

Cade Cunningham has been ruled out for Friday's game against the 76ers due to a hip issue. This comes after a 2023-24 season where he showed significant growth in his third year, averaging career highs in points (22.7) and assists (7.5) with improved shooting splits (44.9/35.5/86.9), bouncing back from a shin injury that sidelined him for most of 2022-23. He was shut down in early April 2024 due to left knee tendinopathy, missing the final seven games, but had scored 32+ points in three consecutive appearances prior. Despite his statistical improvements, Cunningham has yet to crack the top 50 in eight-category fantasy leagues. The Detroit Pistons have bolstered their roster this offseason with the No. 5 overall pick Ron Holland and veterans Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Tim Hardaway, aiming to provide increased floor spacing and support for Cunningham, who is expected to remain the offensive focal point in his fourth season. The 2021 No. 1 overall pick earned All-Rookie First Team honors, and the team's depth has grown significantly since his draft.