In a recent episode of the Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective podcast, Tim Bontemps highlighted the remarkable journey the Detroit Pistons are on. Going from last year’s playoffs, where they managed just two wins, to potentially winning three series in 2026 to reach the NBA Finals would be "basically unprecedented." But don't let that dampen the spirits of Pistons fans.
Detroit has been a powerhouse this season, dominating the Eastern Conference where teams like New York and Cleveland were expected to shine. With a stellar 41-13 record, the Pistons have carved out a 5.5-game lead over the second-place Celtics and a seven-game cushion over the third-place Knicks, whom they convincingly defeated again on Thursday night.
While last year’s playoff run gave Detroit a taste of the postseason, Bontemps points out a potential hurdle: the limited playoff experience of their young stars. They've been on the stage, but only in the first round. How will this impact their performance as the pressure mounts?
Are the Pistons ready to be the kings of the East?
Playoff basketball is a different animal compared to the regular season, but that doesn’t diminish what Detroit has achieved or the impressive turnaround they’ve orchestrated over the past couple of years.
Few could have predicted the Pistons would make the playoffs in 2025 after finishing with a league-worst 14-68 record. Fast forward less than two years, and they’re among the league’s elite.
Detroit isn’t just eyeing another playoff appearance or even a series win, which would be their first since 2008. Their ambitions are much grander now, and the postseason is where they can truly cement their transformation.
Boston, with its championship pedigree, poses a significant threat, especially if Jayson Tatum makes a comeback. Cleveland could also be a challenge.
The Knicks, despite being outplayed in the regular season, can't be underestimated. Boston learned that lesson last year.
The Pistons’ focus isn’t solely on Boston or New York, as they might not face either until the conference finals. As things stand, they’d first face the No. 8 seed Heat, assuming Miami secures its spot through the play-in.
Overlooking Erik Spoelstra and his squad would be a grave mistake. If they advance, a matchup against either Cleveland or Toronto awaits in the semifinals.
Even the most die-hard Detroit fans might see where Bontemps is coming from, but they also know this team, led by MVP contender Cade Cunningham, has the grit and talent to push through to the NBA Finals.