Opinion: What a difference two years make

We all know how dreadful the Detroit Pistons were two years ago. They went 28 straight games without a win, and had the worst record in the NBA at 14 wins and 68 losses. Detroit then fired Monty Williams, and hired J.B. Bickerstaff, and the culture seemed to immediately change.

The Pistons made the playoffs last season with a record of 44 wins and 38 losses. Now in 2025-26, the Pistons have taken another quantum leap up the NBA standings. After 15 games this season, Detroit has a record of 13 wins and two losses. With a winning percentage of .867 they are the number one team in the East and have the second best record in the entire NBA. The only team with a better record are the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder at 15 wins and one loss. 

This turnaround by the Pistons, is a gigantic sports story. The only two teams to beat the Pistons this year are the Chicago Bulls (115-111 on October 22), and the Cleveland Cavaliers (116-95 on October 27). Since then, the Pistons have won 11 straight. The most impressive win in that time came one October 17 as they beat the Orlando Magic 135-116.

There are currently seven Pistons averaging double digits in points. Guard Cade Cunningham leads the way with 27.3 points per game. Meanwhile, center Jalen Duren of New Castle, Delaware is averaging a double-double as he is averaging 20.6 points per game and 11.9 rebounds per game.

This Pistons team is generating momentum. It will be interesting to see if they contend for a league championship this season.