Four years ago, the Detroit Pistons recorded their lowest performance in franchise history by the All-Star break. Their situation was even bleaker two years ago.
Fast forward to now.
As the NBA resumes play following the All-Star break on Thursday, the Pistons — who last won a playoff series in 2008 — will enter the night as the league’s top team, closely followed by the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Currently, Detroit holds a record of 40-13, while Oklahoma City stands at 42-14.
While the Thunder were anticipated to be in this position, the Pistons were not. Their performance in the upcoming stretch of the NBA season, with two-thirds of the year behind them, is a storyline worth watching as teams jockey for playoff spots or aim for favorable lottery positions.
“We’re just going to run our race,” said Pistons All-Star guard Cade Cunningham. “We like where we’re at, and we’ll strive to finish the season on a strong note.”
Detroit enters the home stretch with a lot to be optimistic about. They’ve avoided significant downturns, showing an impressive 11-2 record after losses and being one of only three teams (along with Oklahoma City and San Antonio) without a losing streak of more than two games. They also hold a league-low three losses by 10 points or more and boast a stellar 17-6 record against teams with .500 or better records.
Playoff basketball is on the horizon in Detroit, and for the first time since 2008, the Pistons should host a Game 1 in the postseason. Other teams like the Thunder, Boston, New York, San Antonio, Denver, Houston, and Cleveland appear to be secure playoff contenders as well.
