What happened: Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham has been diagnosed with a collapsed lung and is expected to miss an extended period of time, ESPN's Shams Charania reported Thursday. The All-Star guard, averaging 24.5 points and 9.9 assists, was leading the 49-19 Pistons atop the Eastern Conference. The injury is described as mild with optimism for a potential playoff return.

Why it matters: Cunningham's absence threatens Detroit's No. 1 seed in a competitive East, with their to win the conference lengthening behind Celtics, Cavaliers and Knicks. He needs four more games to reach the 65-game threshold for MVP and All-NBA consideration. The Pistons' success this season has been built around his elite production, making them a different team without him.

What to watch: Watch Pistons' performance in near-term games without Cunningham and any recovery updates, especially with the playoff race tightening.