Community Shootaround: Pistons’ Postseason Chances

The Pistons won only 14 games last season, their worst mark in franchise history. With a new head coach and revamped front office, they’re no longer a laughingstock.

In many games last season, the Pistons looked overmatched from the opening tip. Thanks to some veteran upgrades, they’ve put up a fight in most games this season.

Following road wins against the Suns and Lakers, Detroit is now just one shy of last season’s win total at 13-17. Cade Cunningham (23.9 points, 9.7 assists, and 7.0 rebounds per game) is playing at an All-Star level.

Backcourt partner Jaden Ivey (17.4 PPG, 4.2 APG, 4.2 RPG) has played with more confidence under new coach J.B. Bickerstaff. President of basketball operations Trajan Langdon signed or traded for Tobias Harris, Tim Hardaway Jr. and Malik Beasley to complement the team’s young core. Those additions have made a major difference.

Beasley, in particular, has proved to be a bargain signing on a one-year deal. He’s averaging 16.6 points per game, mostly off the bench, while making 41.6 percent of his three-pointers.

Naturally, those vets could be dealt for assets, but that’s not a given. There’s value in learning how to win and perhaps getting a taste of the postseason.

The latter is not far-fetched. The Pistons are currently tied for ninth in the Eastern Conference, which would get them one of the last two play-in spots.

Detroit has posted some other solid wins this season. The Pistons have notched two overtime victories over the Heat, a home win over the Lakers and road victories against the Pacers and Knicks.

Most of the teams behind them are either in tank mode or simply awful. Among that group, only the Sixers figure to move up the standings. On the flip side, the Bulls and Hawks could slide down the standings, depending on what they decide to do in the trade market.

That brings us to today’s topic: Will the Pistons, last season’s worst team, qualify for the play-in tournament? Should they hold onto to the veterans who have improved the team or should they look to deal them for assets?

Please take to the comments section to weigh in on this topic. We look forward to your input.

View Comments (10)