After years of rebuilding and stockpiling young talent, the Detroit Pistons enter the 2025-26 NBA season with high expectations and a renewed sense of purpose. Coming off a season where the Pistons started to put it together and were one of the biggest surprises of the league winning 44 regular season games, they are aiming to make a real push up the Eastern Conference standings. With a clearer identity, a more balanced roster, and a front office that has been aggressive in improving the team, Detroit could be one of the major contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff is now fully settled into his role, and his influence should be more apparent this season. All in all, Detroit has a legitimate chance to make noise in the Eastern Conference this season.
Detroit Pistons Looking to Jump up in Eastern Conference Standings
A Solid Mix of Veteran Talent and Youth
One of the most intriguing aspects of Detroit’s outlook this season is the roster construction. Cade Cunningham, entering his fifth season, is expected to be the team’s leader and superstar. His ability to lead this core and continue his development will be paramount to the team’s success.
Alongside him, Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren continue to grow into their roles. They both provide athleticism and energy on both ends of the floor. The team is hopeful that Ivey will come back strong after suffering a broken left fibula last New Year’s Day in a matchup against the Orlando Magic. If he does, it will alleviate pressure off of Cade Cunningham.
This mix gives Detroit flexibility and a variety of lineup combinations. Not to mention, the additions of Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert will provide the Pistons some valuable shooting and scoring. Considering all of this, Detroit’s balanced roster will be something to keep an eye on this coming season.
Detroit Pistons Looking to Take Advantage of a Wide Open Eastern Conference
While teams like New York and Cleveland remain elite, the rest of the Eastern Conference appears up for grabs. Traditional playoff squads like Boston, Milwaukee, and Indiana are facing major questions around injuries to star players and roster construction. This opens a real opportunity for a team like Detroit to climb into the top-five of the Eastern Conference standings.
If the Detroit Pistons can stay healthy and find early-season momentum, don’t be surprised if Detroit becomes one of the elite squads in not just the Eastern Conference, but the entire Association.
