Motown Momentum: Pistons Turned “Rebuild” into a Threat
The Detroit Pistons are no longer just winning games in the regular season; they are making a statement. In the 2025-2026 season, Detroit is consistently controlling pace and building separation early. The Pistons have won games in clutch situations all season long, better equipping them for the playoffs. They are first amongst teams in single-digit wins, with 19 out of 34 games being small margin wins. They are holding opponents under league average shooting on a nightly basis. That combination has pushed Detroit firmly into the Eastern Conference power discussion.
One of the biggest reasons for Detroit’s rise is how quickly games tilt in its favor. The Pistons rank first in the Eastern Conference in first-half point differential. They regularly jump out to early leads by forcing turnovers and turning defense into offense. Detroit has been averaging 26.8 assists per game, showing how connected the offense has become. When teams try to slow the tempo, the Pistons stay patient and disciplined. Those habits matter in both the regular season and the playoffs.
Offensively, Detroit’s balance has raised its ceiling. Cade Cunningham is averaging about 25 points and nine assists per game while prioritizing control over volume. He keeps the ball moving and consistently puts teammates in scoring positions. The Pistons don’t rank high in shooting percentage from deep, but with the eventual addition of Kevin Huerter, the spacing will make it difficult for defenses to collapse or load up on one player. Detroit is scoring in transition efficiently without relying on isolation basketball.
The Pistons’ defense has been just as, if not more important, to their success. Detroit is holding opponents to a league-low 44.2% shooting from the field. They also limit teams to 84.7 field goal attempts per game, which is the lowest in the league. They rank near the top of the conference in defensive rebounds per game, limiting second-chance opportunities. Several players, such as Daniss Jenkins and Cunningham, average at least one steal per game, highlighting active hands and strong positioning. The Pistons are comfortable switching matchups and protecting the paint as a group. That versatility gives them answers when opponents try to exploit weaknesses.
The Eastern Conference still has established playoff powers. The New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics have experienced winning tight postseason games. The Knicks beat the Pistons in a six-game playoff series last season. Detroit hasn’t forgotten about the Game Six loss at home last playoffs that bounced them from the playoffs. However, this season, the Pistons have gone undefeated against the Knicks, with both games being blowouts. Against Boston, Detroit has split the season series 1-1, with both games being competitive. Detroit has not yet proven itself in a long playoff series. Execution in late playoff game situations and responding to repeated adjustments will be the next test. Those moments often decide who advances and who goes home.
Still, Detroit’s trajectory is hard to ignore. The Pistons are winning with structure, depth, and consistency rather than streaky shooting nights. They are building habits that translate when the season slows down. Detroit is forcing opponents to adjust instead of reacting. If this level of play continues, the Pistons will enter the playoffs as more than just a dangerous matchup. They will enter as a legitimate threat to come out of the Eastern Conference.
