Hornets center Moussa Diabate has established himself as a Pistons rival after his central role in the brawl between the teams back in February. But, in a recent appearance on the Zach Lowe Show, Diabate claimed that a potential playoff matchup with Detroit would be no different from any other opponent. It's up to us whether or not we believe him, but either way the Hornets could be a major problem for the Pistons in the playoffs, especially with Diabate's relentless offensive rebounding.
Diabate wisely avoided poking the bear
In the entire new year, the Hornets have been red-hot. They are 28-12 in the 2026 calendar year, one of the best marks in the entire league. Diabate has received an upgraded role in that time, and thrived in that opportunity. He's averaging 8 points and 9 rebounds per game while shooting 63% from the field during that span. His 3.8 offensive rebounds per game are also top 6 in the NBA since the calendar turned.
The Hornets have worked their way up to the 9th seed, tied with the Magic and Heat in record but 2nd in the tiebreaker hierarchy. Under the NBA's Play-In structure, they would have the opportunity to secure the 8th seed and a series against the Pistons by winning two straight games in the Play-In Tournament. If that were the case, Diabate would have to contend against another young rising center in Jalen Duren for a whole playoff series.
But the Hornets probably don't want to give the Pistons any more motivation than they already have. Charlotte is 0-2 against the Pistons this season, including a blowout loss in December and a loss in the aforementioned brawl game that ended a long win streak for them. The Hornets also have a poor clutch record at 10-17 this season, while the Pistons have thrived in those same situations. And the playoffs are often characterized by close contests and late-game execution.
The Pistons should have their eyes peeled for Charlotte
Even with their advantages over the Hornets this season, the Pistons still need to be wary of this potential matchup. Obviously the Hornets have plenty of their own strengths now and clicking at the right time. If Cade Cunningham is still recovering from his collapsed lung by the first round of the playoffs and the Pistons draw a matchup with the Hornets, Detroit could be in risk of an early exit.
Everyone knows about the 3-point shooting barrage led by Lamelo Ball and Kon Knueppel, but Diabate's connective play at center really takes them over the top. The Hornets feel like they are in a similar spot as the Pistons last year, catching their stride and ready to dominate with their unique play style next season.