The Detroit Pistons closed the regular season with a 60-22 record after defeating the lottery-bound Indiana Pacers on Sunday, marking only the third 60-win campaign in franchise history. The victory cemented the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. Detroit opens the playoffs Sunday night against a yet-to-be-determined opponent.
“It’s a sign of the work that’s been done by everybody who’s a part of this,” head coach J.B. Bickerstaff said, crediting the front office, coaching staff, players and medical team. “Our work’s not done, but everybody who’s been part of it should be celebrated.”
Veteran forward Tobias Harris, set to enter free agency this summer, praised the roster’s steady mindset throughout the season. “We’ve done a great job handling success,” Harris noted, citing the club’s ability to overcome early-season injuries and lean on next-man-up contributions.
Playoff Expectations Rise
Detroit fell in the first round to New York last spring after the worst season in team history. This year, guard Cade Cunningham said the group is focused on a deeper run: “It’s been a great regular season. Now it’s time for the real fun.”
Trade Dividend: Draft Position Improves
The multiteam deal that sent Jaden Ivey to Chicago earlier this season continues to pay off. In addition to acquiring reserve wing Kevin Huerter, the Pistons gained a protected pick swap with Minnesota. Because the Timberwolves’ pick landed 20th, Detroit will select No. 21 while Minnesota drops to No. 28.
Tolu Smith Earns Standard Contract
Rookie center Tolu Smith was elevated from a two-way agreement to a standard NBA deal last week. Bickerstaff said the 24-year-old “earned his way” onto the 15-man roster through consistent development and strong stints with both Detroit and its G League affiliate, Motor City. “His ability to rebound, protect the paint and finish around the rim adds a different dynamic. He fits right in with the identity of this team,” the coach added.
The Pistons will spend the week preparing for their first-round matchup as Detroit aims to translate regular-season dominance into postseason success.
Source: Hoops Rumors
