This offseason has been the most exciting offseason for Pistons fans in well over a decade. After one season under new GM Troy Weaver, the Detroit Pistons entered the 2021 NBA Offseason with a completely overhauled roster compared to the prior season, a breakout star in Jerami Grant, and a young core of rookies that included two members of the All-NBA Rookie teams.
As Weaver entered the second offseason of his restoration of the Detroit Pistons, the expectations for the GM were unquestionably high. Those expectations only rose even higher after Detroit moved up to the number one pick following the NBA Draft Lottery.
With the draft long gone and free agency as good as complete for Detroit, Weaver definitely delivered on the expectations for this offseason.
With the number one pick in Cade Cunningham joining the young Pistons core comprised of Killian Hayes, Saddiq Bey, Hamidou Diallo, and Isaiah Stewart, Detroit will have one of the most exciting young groups in the entire NBA this upcoming season. These young prospects along with Grant are joined by a supporting cast highlighted by newly signed center Kelly Olynyk, journeyman point guard Cory Joseph, and sharpshooting Frank Jackson.
Detroit Pistons: What is the ceiling for this young team?
As the hype surrounding the number one pick along with the prospect of a promising young developing roster, the idea of Detroit competing in the NBA’s play-in tournament has become a topic of speculation.
The play-in tournament certainly is a goal for this Pistons roster. After two consecutive years in the lottery, it would be ideal for the team to make strides towards contention. The play-in would be that first step.
Without a doubt, the Detroit Pistons will be a competitive team next season. Head coach Dwane Casey has developed talent well going back to his days with the Toronto Raptors. Grant will look to build off his breakout year. Last season’s rookies are hoping to maximize their potential next season. Not to mention Cunningham will be making a bid for the NBA Rookie of the Year award as well.
But while the team may be competitive this upcoming season, that does not guarantee Detroit a place in the play-in. The roster has definitely been improved over last season, but it is yet to be seen if it has improved enough to catch up with the rest of the Eastern Conference.
Here are the factors in favor and against the Pistons making the play-in tournament next season.