Even though the Detroit Pistons lost to the New York Knicks in Game 6 of the NBA Playoffs, they had a season that should be celebrated. The turnaround from one season to the next was one of the biggest stories of the regular season. They had such success without the services of arguably their second-best player. Jaden Ivey was out since January 1 with a fractured fibula.
Their biggest achievement for the Detroit Pistons was being the first team in league history to triple their win total from the previous season. They were the first team ever to have the worst record the previous season and then make the playoffs the following year. They also had playoff success even though they were unable to advance. They made the postseason for the first time since 2019 and nabbed their first playoff win since 2008. Will the Pistons be able to build upon their success next year?
What Led the Detroit Pistons To Such a Turnaround?
The Pistons have a lot to be proud of 👏
📈 First team in NBA history to triple their win total from the prior season excluding lockouts (14 wins to 44)
📈 First playoff appearance since 2019
📈 First playoff win since 2008
📈 Cade Cunningham became the first Pistons All-Star… pic.twitter.com/tx2cJMOKmk— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 2, 2025
Point Guard Cade Cunningham played at an All-NBA level this year. He was Detroit’s first All-Star since 2019. Cunningham was assisted by a historic season from Malik Beasley. He became one of five players in league history to make 300+ triples in a season.
Detroit’s terrible 2023-2024 regular season led to a change in the head coach position. The team turned to former Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach J. B. Bickerstaff. His great season led to him being a finalist for the NBA’s Coach of the Year. Detroit’s youth reared its ugly head against the New York Knicks. A 21-0 sunk Detroit’s chances in Game 1. Then Detroit coughed up a 7-point lead with 2:35 left in Game 6. The story for Detroit in their first-round loss was a lack of late-game execution. That will only improve as the team gains experience. This season was a massive step forward in that regard.
Final Thoughts
The Detroit Pistons, for the first time in years, enter the offseason with their head heads held high. No one expected them to have the best turnaround in NBA history. The core of Cunningham, Ivey, and Center Jalen Duren will lead to an exciting time in the “Motor City.”
Don't stop here
Every Score. Every Story. One Home.
Breaking sports, entertainment and news from across the Total Apex network, updated all day.
Get the Full Story →
