As the Detroit Pistons gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, the atmosphere surrounding the team is charged with heightened expectations following a strong 44-win campaign last year.
Cade Cunningham, the 24-year-old star guard, stands at the center of these ambitions. After an impressive season where he averaged 26.1 points and 9.1 assists per game—all career-highs—and celebrated his first All-Star selection, Cunningham is viewed as a cornerstone for a potential championship-caliber team. His recent accolades, including a top-10 finish in MVP voting, have further solidified his standing as a rising star in the league.
Adding to the excitement, Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor suggests that the Pistons may look to make a significant trade this season. The team’s advantageous position, with a robust collection of future first-round picks and tradable contracts, puts them in a prime spot to make impactful moves. O’Connor notes that players like Tobias Harris, whose expiring contract is valued at $26.6 million, and Jaden Ivey with a $10.1 million contract, could be pivotal in negotiations.
Harris, who averaged 13.7 points and shot 47.7% from the field last season, has seen a drop in performance compared to previous years, making him a candidate for a trade as the Pistons focus on a younger core. Meanwhile, Ivey, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2022 draft, is currently recovering from knee surgery and is expected to miss at least four weeks of the regular season. Prior to his injury, he showcased his potential by averaging 17.6 points, four assists, and 4.1 rebounds, meaning he could be a valuable asset if the Pistons decide to pursue a trade, though his situation may complicate any potential deals.
With the Eastern Conference wide open this season, the Pistons’ ambitions for a deep playoff run could drive them to make bold moves to enhance their roster. The intersection of Cunningham’s burgeoning star power, along with strategic trade opportunities, positions Detroit as a team to watch in the upcoming season.