Healthy Ivey Returns as Pistons Open Camp; Cunningham Eyes Title Run
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DETROIT — Guard Jaden Ivey is back to full strength as the Pistons begin training camp, ten months after a fractured left fibula limited him to 30 games last season.
Ivey called the rehabilitation process “a grind,” but said he is now pain-free and eager for the 2025-26 campaign. President of basketball operations Trajan Langdon confirmed the 23-year-old faces no medical restrictions, while cautioning that game rhythm and conditioning will take time to recover. Ivey remains eligible for a rookie-scale extension through October 20.
Cunningham sets higher bar
All-Star guard Cade Cunningham said last season’s playoff berth raised expectations inside the locker room. “We all want a championship out of this,” he told The Athletic, adding that last year was merely “a stepping stone” toward that goal.
Thompson’s offseason gains
Multiple teammates singled out second-year wing Ausar Thompson for noticeable improvement. Thompson, who missed the start of 2024-25 because of a blood clot, spent a healthy summer adding muscle and refining his skills. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff said superior conditioning should unlock the 22-year-old’s “freak-of-nature abilities.”
LeVert reunion
Bickerstaff also welcomed veteran swingman Caris LeVert, signed to a two-year free-agent deal. Having coached LeVert in Cleveland, Bickerstaff plans to use the 31-year-old as both a secondary ball-handler and creator, citing his versatility and passing touch.
Shooting and roster flexibility
Detroit finished 22nd in three-point attempts last season and lost several high-volume shooters in the offseason. Bickerstaff said he is comfortable sacrificing shot totals if the team gains advantages elsewhere, noting a preference for “position-less basketball” over traditional depth charts.
The Pistons open preseason play next week with 20 players in camp.
Source: Hoops Rumors
