The Detroit Pistons have transformed from an NBA-record-tying 28-game losing streak two years ago to a 19-5 record and first place in the Eastern Conference this season. Led by Cade Cunningham's MVP-level play and Jalen Duren's breakout performance, the team has tied a franchise record with a 13-game winning streak. Their success stems from retaining a young core and emphasizing elite defense.
Two years ago, in December 2023, the Detroit Pistons endured a 28-game losing streak, tying an NBA record, and finished 14-68, the worst in franchise history. Cade Cunningham fought back tears after the 25th straight loss. Now, at 19-5, they top the East, trailing only the Oklahoma City Thunder overall. Their 13-game win streak from October 29 to November 24 tied a franchise record, marking the latest atop the East since 2005, their last Finals year.
Last season, the Pistons won 44 games, reached the playoffs for the first time since 2019, and took the New York Knicks to six games. Rather than trading youth for stars, they added veterans Duncan Robinson, Caris LeVert, and Javonte Green while empowering their core. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff said, "We made a conscious decision this summer to give our young guys an opportunity to continue to grow together."
Cunningham, Eastern Conference Player of the Month for November, averages 27.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 9.3 assists, and 1.5 steals, shooting 29.9% from three. He creates 47.5 points per game, ranks 11th in scoring and second in assists, and could join the eighth player to average 28 points and nine assists. The Pistons' net rating is plus-8.5 with him on the floor versus minus-0.6 without. He logs 36.4 minutes per game. Cunningham noted, "I've felt like I was in more of a rhythm than this... There's some low-hanging fruit that I could get right now that would help me take my game to another level too."
Jalen Duren, the potential No. 2 option, averages a career-high 18.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, and one block on 65.5% shooting, achieving a double-double as one of nine players league-wide. He worked extensively with assistant Vitaly Potapenko, improving offensively and defensively. Bickerstaff praised, "He's improved as a defensive rim protector... And that's helped keep him out of foul trouble also." The net rating is plus-14.5 with Duren and plus-14.8 alongside Cunningham.
In clutch situations—17 of 24 games within five points in the final five minutes—the Pistons lead with 13 wins and a .765 winning percentage. They are 4-2 in three-point games. Cunningham's 79 clutch points rank second, with 12 assists also second, shooting 53.3% from the field in 57 minutes. He said, "I relish the moment... it's my opportunity or my job to go make a play."
Ausar Thompson anchors the defense, continuing the Bad Boys legacy. Duncan Robinson called him "an absolute menace on the ball," while Duren predicted he will be the league's best defender in under two years. Defensive rankings include 111.3 rating (fourth), opponent 44.6% field goal percentage (second), and leading loose balls recovered at 6.5 per game.
Jalen Duren reflected, "The biggest thing is we're still hungry... As we continue to prove them wrong, it's gonna be a fun ride." Isaiah Stewart added about Cunningham, "You know the ball is in the right person's hands... He's never afraid of the moment."
Trade rumors persist, including interest in Anthony Davis, but reports indicate no dramatic moves planned.