The Detroit Pistons embarked on their preseason journey against the Milwaukee Bucks back in October, only to find themselves trailing by double digits within minutes. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff quickly called for a timeout, a decision met with a chorus of boos from the home crowd.
Fast forward to the present, and the mood in Detroit has shifted dramatically. The Pistons, who infamously endured a 28-game losing streak last season, have achieved a rejuvenating turnaround. Now boasting a 40-32 record, they stand on the precipice of securing a winning season and have guaranteed themselves at least a spot in the play-in tournament. Their dramatic improvement, a significant 26-game increase in victories from the previous year, is historical for the franchise.
This resurgence has taken the basketball world by surprise. The plan, according to Pistons General Manager Trajan Langdon, was always to improve progressively throughout the season. “We aimed to be better each month without solely focusing on the end result,” he said. Langdon admits even he would not have predicted reaching 40 wins with games still left on the schedule.
Central to Detroit’s success is Cade Cunningham, the first overall pick in 2021, who has blossomed into a leading star. An All-Star selection, Cunningham is also a contender for All-NBA recognition, averaging a noteworthy 25.7 points and 9.2 assists per game—statistics paralleled only by Nikola Jokic this season.
Cunningham, who was part of last season’s struggles, relishes the team’s current trajectory. “This is what we envisioned,” he noted. “We persevered despite early challenges, and this season has been incredibly rewarding for us as a young team. But our hunger for success remains.”
While Cunningham is at the forefront, Detroit’s achievements are a collective effort. Tobias Harris and Tim Hardaway Jr., seasoned veterans, have infused experience and stability. Jalen Duren, now in his third year, has been consistently delivering double-doubles and maintaining a shooting percentage of 70%. Meanwhile, Malik Beasley ranks among the top players in fast-break points, contributing significantly to the team’s fast-paced style. Importantly, they have succeeded without Jaden Ivey, sidelined with a leg injury.
The coaching brain behind their turnaround is J.B. Bickerstaff, previously dismissed by Cleveland despite a playoff appearance. Recruited by Langdon after Monty Williams’ exit, Bickerstaff found alignment with the franchise’s vision, spurred by owner Tom Gores’ support.
“Timing was perfect,” Bickerstaff remarked. “Trajan presented the opportunity at just the right moment when I was ready to dive back into coaching. The team’s youthful roster was an exciting prospect for me.”
After a slow start, marked by an initial 0-4 record, Detroit found its rhythm. December 26 was pivotal, with a comeback victory against Sacramento catalyzing a run where they won 10 out of 12 games. By February, the Pistons had pushed past the .500 mark with momentum that appeared unstoppable.
Bickerstaff attributes their success to staying grounded. “They focus on the present, mastering consistency daily,” he explained. “This approach has allowed us to navigate each challenge without being distracted by future possibilities.”
Looking ahead, the Pistons’ rebuild seems promising. With young talents like Duren and Cunningham and potential offseason cap space, the future looks bright. Bickerstaff concludes with enthusiasm, “I am completely invested in this group’s growth, finding immense joy in watching them excel.”
The Detroit Pistons, once the recipients of boos, now captivate the NBA with their remarkable turnaround, hinting at further successes on the horizon.