The Athletic NBA Daily March Madness, Cade Cunningham out + Boston winning the East?
Mar 20, 2026
Brian Geissinger, NBA reporter and Buzzbeat Charlotte Hornets podcaster, breaks down Charlotte’s blowout win and their perimeter shooting. He reacts to March Madness upsets and Cade Cunningham’s season-ending injury. He also debates the East’s top teams and explains why Boston looks like the one to beat.
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VCU's Comeback Felt Like Classic March Madness
- The VCU upset over UNC felt like classic March Madness chaos and came down to a dramatic comeback and overtime.
- Brian Geisinger described flipping channels and catching VCU rally from 19 down into OT as a standout moment.
Cade Cunningham Injury Forces Offensive Identity Shift
- Cade Cunningham's collapsed lung likely ends his regular season and raises doubts about first-round availability, disrupting Detroit's offense.
- Brian Geisinger says Pistons must shift creation to Caris LeVert and leverage Jalen Duren as a face-up hub to compensate.
65 Game Rule Is Rewriting Season Recognition
- The NBA's 65-game eligibility rule for awards is creating distortions this season, potentially excluding players like Cade from honors despite elite play.
- Dave DuFour and Brian suggest the league will revisit the rule or create flexibility because it can