The Detroit Pistons had a rough season last year, winning only 14 out of 82 games and finishing with a .171 winning percentage.
New Faces and High Hopes
Despite the poor performance, the Pistons picked up Ron Holland in the draft. He was ranked No. 1 by many before the spring draft season but ended up being selected at No. 5. With J.B. Bickerstaff now coaching, there’s hope for a better future even though the team lacks size upfront.
Five Reasons for Optimism
1. Detroit Grit
Last season started with Monty Williams as head coach, but it quickly went downhill with an NBA record-tying 28-game losing streak. Owner Tom Gores didn’t hesitate to replace Williams with Bickerstaff, who brings a gritty personality that fits well with Detroit’s tough spirit.
2. Cade Cunningham’s Potential
Cade Cunningham aims to be the next Grant Hill for Detroit but has struggled with injuries. However, he impressed during Team USA scrimmages last summer and continues to improve his game each year. If he stays healthy, an All-Star appearance could be on the horizon in 2024-25.
3. Jalen Duren’s Role
Jalen Duren faces a big challenge as Detroitโs main big man after James Wiseman moved to Indiana. At 6-foot-10, he may not be huge for a center but has the athleticism and physicality needed to compete in the paint.
Fans feel hopeful about this new direction!
Detroit will need everyone to help out with rebounding if they want to keep up with bigger teams like Boston and Indiana.
4. Improved Team Cohesion
The Pistons made some tough decisions last season to boost teamwork on both ends of the court. Bojan Bogdanovic was great at scoring but didnโt mesh well with Cunninghamโs style of play. Adding Simone Fontecchio brought smoother play and better scoring within their system.
Tobias Harris is back too! Although his playoff performance last year was worrying, he can still contribute important plays for Detroit .
Adding Holland from the draft also strengthens their defense alongside Ausar Thompson from last year’s first round pick.
With Cunningham leading offense efforts focused on ball movement and defense, they have a chance at building a strong identity next season.
5. The Drive to Succeed
Heading into 2024-25, it’s crucial for Detroit to bounce back from last seasonโs disappointment or risk losing their fanbase entirely.
The team hasnโt won a playoff series since beating Orlando Magic in 2007-08 second round.
Players like Cunningham, Duren, and Jaden Ivey are talented enough to bring success back but it will take time starting under Bickerstaffโs leadership this coming season.
