25. Detroit Pistons
Key offseason move: Drafted Ausar Thompson, acquired Joe Harris
The Detroit Pistons didn’t make many huge moves this offseason but it’s hard to look at their roster and not be impressed by saying they didn’t improve. It started by drafting Ausar Thompson with their top 10 draft pick. They also managed to acquire Joe Harris, who is still a good shooter at this point in his career, from the Brooklyn Nets. But what the Pistons have to be most excited about is their young core – led by Cade Cunningham.
If he’s healthy, it completely changes the outlook for the team. With the assumption that he’s going to be healthy to start the season, there’s a chance the Pistons could be a surprise playoff threat in the Eastern Conference. The continued development of Jaden Ivey, James Wiseman, and Jalen Duren will only help their chances.
Like many other young teams at this point in the power rankings, the Pistons may still be a year or two away. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be one of the more entertaining teams to watch this season.