The Detroit Pistons don’t seem to be hopeful for a key return to their rotation in Game 3 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
According to the official NBA injury report, the Pistons are operating with the idea that Kevin Huerter will remain off the court. He has a slim chance of suiting up as he’s doubtful due to a left adductor strain.
But recent history suggests that Huerter will remain on the sidelines once again.
A Quiet Playoff Run For Kevin Huerter
GettyTORONTO, CANADA – FEBRUARY 11: Kevin Huerter #27 of the Detroit Pistons and Daniss Jenkins #24 walk alongside each other during the second half of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on February 11, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)
The Pistons didn’t get a chance to utilize Huerter in the playoffs much. He checked in for nearly 19 minutes in the first game of the postseason against the Orlando Magic, but played for under seven minutes in Game 2.
Huerter’s playing time was back up to nearly 15 minutes in Game 3, but he saw the court for just two minutes in the fourth outing, which resulted in a 94-88 loss for Detroit.
For the final three games of the first-round series against the Magic, Huerter was sidelined due to his setback. Fortunately, the Pistons managed to get the job done and advance to the second round.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – MARCH 23: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball against Kevin Huerter #27 of the Detroit Pistons during the first quarter at Little Caesars Arena on March 23, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
Against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Huerter hasn’t had a chance to take the court. The Pistons ruled out Huerter for the first two games of the second round. Without him, the Pistons took care of business with two comfortable wins over a struggling Cleveland team. Huerter is trending towards missing the third game of the series.
The 27-year-old former 19th pick landed with the Pistons back in February. He was a part of the infamous Jaden Ivey trade. Huerter landed with the Pistons after seeing the court for 44 games with the Bulls this year.
For 25 games, Huerter appeared on the court with the Pistons during the regular season. Seeing the floor for 20.5 minutes per game, Huerter averaged 8.6 points, while shooting 44.3% from the field and 29.4% from three.
At the end of the Pistons’ postseason run, Huerter will begin gearing up for free agency.