This Pistons offseason is going to be one of the most critical in franchise history as Detroit looks to build on its first overwhelmingly successful season in a very long time.

After years of rebuilding, the Detroit Pistons are officially back on the NBA radar. Following a surprising 2024–25 season with a 44–38 record — their best since 2016 — the franchise snapped a six-year playoff drought and re-energized a fanbase hungry for postseason relevance. Now, Detroit must capitalize on their newfound momentum to avoid stalling with a wide-open Eastern Conference up for grabs.

While the team showed notable improvement this season, their playoff exit revealed a critical flaw: the lack of reliable secondary shooting behind Cade Cunningham. Adding offensive depth is priority No. 1 this summer. 

Cade Cunningham and the Core

Cade Cunningham has fully embraced his role as the face of the franchise. He posted career highs in points and assists, showcasing poise, leadership, and the all-around skill set that teams build around. Alongside him, rising talents such as Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson, and Ron Holland II provide the Pistons with a solid, young nucleus.

Veteran forward Tobias Harris has also played a key role, offering a steady presence and reliable mid-range scoring to balance the youth-driven roster.

Cap Space and Opportunity

The Pistons possess enough cap space to potentially retain veteran contributors like Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., Dennis Schröder, and Paul Reed, all of whom are set to become unrestricted free agents. However, the extensions of key young players such as Jaden Ivey and Duren could impact their future financial flexibility.

Limited draft capital constrains Detroit in some capacity. President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon has demonstrated a willingness to be aggressive in free agency to make up for those limitations. This Pistons offseason should be no different. 

With what’s seemingly going to be a very active trade market this summer, Detroit’s draft picks could become valuable assets in a larger deal aimed at immediate improvement. 

Shooters Touch

Detroit should first focus on acquiring a shooter. They need someone who can space the floor and provide additional offensive production alongside players like Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris. Two potential targets are Naz Reid and Myles Turner.

Turner, currently with the Pacers, is known for his ability to stretch the floor while adding a strong defensive presence. Reid, who plays for the Timberwolves, is also a versatile shooter and could be on the Pistons’ radar. With Reid yet to sign a contract extension with Minnesota, Detroit may have an opportunity to acquire him in free agency. 

On the Cusp of Contention

The Pistons’ 2025 offseason is about more than just roster adjustments — it’s a litmus test for how committed the organization is to competing at the highest level. With a talented young core, a clear need for scoring help, and financial flexibility, the blueprint for success is already in place. Now, it’s just a matter of execution.

Fans in Detroit have waited a long time for Little Caesars Arena to relevant again. If the front office plays its cards right, the 2025–26 season may not only bring another return to the playoffs — it could mark the beginning of a team capable of making serious postseason noise.