Detroit — The Pistons are set to return to Detroit for a crucial Game 5 matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Little Caesars Arena. With the series tied 2-2 after Detroit’s 112-103 loss on Monday, the Pistons aim to regain control. However, they might have to do so without three key players who have been essential to the team’s success this season.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Pistons listed Kevin Huerter, Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson as questionable for Wednesday night’s game due to their respective injuries.
LeVert has been listed as questionable for the second consecutive game due to a contusion on his right heel. His status was uncertain before Game 4 on Monday. However, he played despite the injury and had his best postseason performance, finishing with a team-high 24 points, 17 of which came in the first half.
This marks the second time LeVert has appeared on the injury report, while Robinson is listed for the first time due to low back soreness. Although it has not been confirmed, the injury could be the reason Robinson had his worst playoff performance in Game 4, when he scored just four points on 1-of-2 shots. Through 11 playoff games, Robinson has averaged 11.5 points on 43.6% shooting from behind the arc.
“He has been huge for us. He is a guy who carries weight and gravity. He is a mover. He helps facilitate our offense in so many different ways,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “Obviously, his shot-making ability, but also the threat that comes with his shot-making ability. It makes him dangerous and forces players to make tough decisions. He has been really important for us and continues to be.”
Huerter might finally return to the lineup after missing the last seven games due to a left adductor strain. He went down with the injury during the Pistons’ Game 3 loss in the first-round series against the Orlando Magic on April 25. Huerter is listed as questionable for the second consecutive game, an improvement from the doubtful status he had amid his first five absences.
NBA Playoffs, second round: No. 1 Pistons vs. No. 4 Cavaliers
Series tied at 2-2
Game 1: Pistons 111, Cavaliers 101
Game 2: Pistons 107, Cavaliers 97
Game 3: Cavaliers 116, Pistons 109
Game 4: Cavaliers 112, Pistons 103
Game 5: at Detroit, Wednesday, May 13, 8:00 p.m. (ESPN)
Game 6: at Cleveland, Friday, May 15, 7:00 pm (Amazon Prime)
x-Game 7: at Detroit, Sunday, May 17 TBD (TBD)
x-If necessary
coty.davis@detroitnews.com
@cotydavis_24
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Pistons’ latest injury report includes new addition for Game 5
Reporting by Coty M. Davis, The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
