After years of rebuilding, the Detroit Pistons are officially back on the NBA radar.
Following a surprising 2024–25 season with a 44–38 record—their best since 2016—the franchise snapped a six-year playoff drought and re-energized a fanbase hungry for postseason relevance. Now, Detroit faces a pivotal moment: capitalize on its newfound momentum or risk stalling in a competitive Eastern Conference.
No matter the outcome, this was a great season!
ALWAYS #DETROITBASKETBALL
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) May 2, 2025
Assessing the Current Core
Cade Cunningham has fully embraced his role as the face of the franchise. He posted career highs in points and assists, showcasing poise, leadership, and the all-around skill set that teams covet. Alongside him, rising talents such as Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson, and Ron Holland II provide the Pistons with a solid, young nucleus.
Veteran forward Tobias Harris has played a key role, offering a steady presence and reliable mid-range scoring to balance the youth-driven roster.
The Pistons possess enough cap space to potentially retain veteran contributors like Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., Dennis Schröder, and Paul Reed, all of whom are set to become unrestricted free agents. However, future financial flexibility could be impacted as key young players such as Jaden Ivey and Duren become eligible for contract extensions.
Guarded Assets and Long-Term Planning
While the team showed notable improvement this season, their playoff exit revealed a critical flaw: the lack of reliable secondary shooting behind Cade Cunningham. Adding offensive depth is the number-one priority this summer.
The Pistons may have constrained their future plans by not accumulating enough draft capital. However, President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon has demonstrated a willingness to be aggressive with what he does have. With a deep free-agent class and an active trade market, Detroit’s draft picks could become valuable assets in a larger deal aimed at immediate improvement.
On the Cusp of Contention
The Pistons’ 2025 offseason is about more than just roster adjustments—it’s a litmus test for how committed the organization is to competing at the highest level. With a talented young core, a clear need for scoring help, and financial flexibility, the blueprint for success is already in place. Now, it’s a matter of execution.
Fans in Detroit have waited a long time for relevance to return to Little Caesars Arena. If the front office plays its cards right, the 2025–26 season may not only bring a return to the playoffs—it could mark the beginning of a team capable of making serious postseason noise.
To the best fans in the association, thank you for your support this season❤️ pic.twitter.com/3Oxiz9qazC
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) May 2, 2025
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