Detroit Pistons Season Preview
- Re-signed: Cade Cunningham, Simone Fontecchio
- Additions: Malik Beasley (free agent), Coach J.B. Bickerstaff, Tim Hardaway Jr. (trade), Tobias Harris (free agent), GM Trajan Langdon, Wendell Moore Jr. (trade), Paul Reed (free agent)
- Draft Picks: Ron Holland (No. 5 overall), Cam Spencer (No. 53)
- Departures: Buddy Boeheim (to Thunder), Taj Gibson (to Hornets), Quentin Grimes (to Mavericks), James Wiseman (to Pacers)
- Unsigned Free Agents: Troy Brown Jr., Malachi Flynn, Evan Fournier, Chimezie Metu, Jared Rhoden
Last Season Recap
The Detroit Pistons endured one of the worst seasons in franchise history in 2023-24, finishing with a disastrous 14-68 record. The season included a historic 28-game losing streak, the longest in NBA history. Injuries were a major issue, with Cade Cunningham missing 62 games and Jalen Duren sitting out for 61. However, the problems extended far beyond injuries. Coach Monty Williams struggled to connect with a young roster, leading to widespread dysfunction. The Pistons, with 11 players under the age of 25, needed a reset, leading to a complete housecleaning in the offseason.
Summer Summary
Governor Tom Gores acted swiftly in response to the disastrous season, making bold moves to overhaul the franchise. Gores made the tough decision to part ways with Monty Williams, despite his massive contract, and brought in J.B. Bickerstaff as head coach after his unexpected departure from the Cleveland Cavaliers. In addition, Trajan Langdon was hired as the new GM to replace Troy Weaver, signaling a new direction for the team.
The Pistons spent in free agency, adding veterans like Tobias Harris and Malik Beasley to help stabilize the roster. Harris, returning for his second stint in Detroit, brings leadership and solid production to a young team. The Pistons also selected Ron Holland with the No. 5 pick, a promising young talent expected to play a key role in the team’s future.
Player Spotlight: Tobias Harris
Tobias Harris returns to Detroit with a fresh perspective after being criticized during his time in Philadelphia. He’ll likely enjoy a lower-pressure role in his second stint with the Pistons, helping guide the team’s younger players while contributing as a steady veteran presence. With the Pistons not expected to contend this season, Harris can focus on mentorship and providing stability on and off the court.
Season Outlook
While Cade Cunningham remains the face of the franchise, much of the burden will fall on new GM Trajan Langdon to reshape the roster. If Cunningham stays healthy, he could push for an All-Star selection, but the Pistons are unlikely to make a serious playoff push given last year’s struggles. Instead, this season will likely be focused on development and continuing to rebuild under the new leadership of Langdon and Bickerstaff.
With realistic expectations set, another trip to the Draft lottery seems probable for Detroit, but there’s hope for gradual improvement. The key for the Pistons in 2024-25 will be laying a foundation for future success while keeping fans engaged with the team’s fresh approach and new leadership.
