NBA Power Rankings: Is the Golden State Warriors dynasty dead?

26. Detroit Pistons

There’s an argument to be made that the Detroit Pistons are at the point where they need to start entering stage 2 or 3 of their rebuild. They have done a great job in stockpiling young talent over the last few years and the time to start winning is now. The good news is that they have a good opportunity to start doing that this season. Of course, that’s if health permits. The one player that needs to remain healthy for the Pistons to be successful this season is Cade Cunningham.

Cunningham is the straw that stirs the Pistons offense. If he’s healthy and is able to take another step forward this season, the outlook for the Pistons completely changes. While it may be a bit unfair to expect much from Ausar Thompson this season, Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey should make big impacts as they enter year 2.

I’m not certain the Pistons are going to make big waves this season in the Eastern Conference but they could emerge as a surprise team if everything falls right for the team. That seems unlikely it will happen, however. They’re still probably a year or two away from entering the playoff conversation.