Cade Cunningham upgraded to doubtful — progress from his collapsed lung.

Cade Cunningham has been upgraded to doubtful, which is actually progress for a player dealing with a collapsed lung. The Pistons' franchise cornerstone has been sidelined since the injury, and Detroit has managed to hold onto the best record in the Eastern Conference at 57-22 without him — a testament to the depth this team has built.

But the playoffs start April 18, and the Pistons need Cade back. A collapsed lung is one of the scariest injuries in basketball — it requires careful medical monitoring and a gradual return to full activity. The upgrade from out to doubtful suggests Cunningham is moving through the recovery protocol, but there's still no firm timeline for his return to game action.

Detroit's regular season success without Cade has been impressive, but playoff basketball is a different animal. The Pistons' championship aspirations hinge on getting their best player back healthy and integrated before the postseason begins. Every day of rest now is an investment in April and May.