Are the Pistons Poised to Surpass Expectations?
The Detroit Pistons had one of the most impressive rags-to-riches stories in recent sports history. In the 2023-2024 season, they were at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a measly 14 wins, and they set a record for the most consecutive losses in a single season after losing 28 consecutive games. After having one of the worst seasons in NBA history, the Pistons had a redemption year in the 2024-2025 season. They finished sixth in the Eastern Conference, landing a playoff spot, finished with a regular season record of 44-38, and Cade Cunningham got his first all-star appearance and All-NBA Award. If the Pistons continue on this trajectory, then the 2025-2026 season will be even more fruitful.
Three teams finished with a higher seeding than the Pistons last season, who won't be able to do so this season. The Boston Celtics lost Jayson Tatum for the season due to an Achilles injury, the Indiana Pacers lost Tyrese Haliburton to an Achilles injury, and the Milwaukee Bucks have given Giannis Antetokounmpo a weaker supporting cast. These teams won't be able to compete with the Pistons this season. This puts the Pistons in a position to compete for the three seed against an improved Orlando Magic and an Atlanta Hawks team that finally gave Trae Young a competitive roster.
The Pistons have a solid roster around Cade that will push them to get a high seeding in the East. Jalen Duren improved his defense last season and was more reliable guarding scoring bigs, and his offensive efficiency has been improving. They signed Duncan Robinson to stretch the floor and add much-needed shooting to the team. His shooting will provide an opportunity for Ausar Thompson to grow offensively. He can focus on his driving ability and perimeter defense without worrying about improving his shot right away.
The Pistons are primed to make a push for the third seed next season and comfortably make the playoffs. Cade will no doubt make his second all-star team and make the All-NBA team for the second time. Their higher seeding means that in the first round of the playoffs, they will be against a worse team, which they should be able to beat and make it to the second round. This is likely where their season will end, and the hand of the New York Knicks or the Cleveland Cavaliers. While the Pistons have improved, both of these teams have made improvements to their roster, and they were already better than the Pistons. They will have a better season than their previous one and will be in a position to improve their roster by signing the next available superstar or improving their depth quality.
