Tim Hardaway Jr. Stepped Up Right In Time For Detroit Pistons

When Cade Cunningham was ruled out on March 23rd for the Detroit Pistons' game against the New Orleans Pelicans, most did not think it was a cause for concern. Many believed the Pistons were getting their star some rest against a team they didn’t need him against to win.

Cunningham would miss six consecutive games for the Pistons, who were in the middle of a tight playoff race in the Eastern Conference. These games feature opponents such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Oklahoma City Thunder.

If the Pistons were to stay in the hunt for the fourth seed and maintain their lead on the fifth seed, Detroit would need someone to step up in Cunningham’s absence.

Enter Tim Hardaway Jr.

Hardaway Jr. had been a reliable veteran for Detroit all season long, playing in 72 of the Pistons’ 77 games. The Michigan alumn had made a living this season, feasting on Cunningham’s gravity and playmaking, resulting in more effortless looks and sustainable play.