Pistons guard Cade Cunningham exits match due to back spasms.

WASHINGTON — Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, a two-time All-Star and a frontrunner in the NBA MVP race, exited Tuesday night’s matchup against the Washington Wizards due to back spasms.

Cunningham seemed to sustain the injury early in the first quarter while attempting to secure a loose ball. He continued to play for several more minutes before being removed from the game at the 6:40 mark.

The team announced during the second quarter that he would not return to the game.

This season, Cunningham is averaging 25 points, 10 assists, and 5.6 rebounds. He recorded six points and two rebounds in 5 minutes and 20 seconds of play on Tuesday night before leaving the court.

Cunningham has participated in 61 games this season. To be eligible for significant postseason honors such as MVP and All-NBA teams, a player must compete in at least 65 games.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.