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During the 2025-2026 campaign, the Detroit Pistons struggled with a lack of bench production, a weakness they actively worked to fix in the offseason. The results are evident in their improved three-point shooting, defensive intensity, and frontcourt depth. Seeing these upgrades materialize early in the season bodes well for the playoffs, especially once Jalen Duren rejoins the lineup.
After finishing atop the Eastern Conference last season, the Pistons appeared poised for another strong year in 2026-2027, and they have largely met those expectations. Key contributors like Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Duncan Robinson, Daniss Jenkins, and Ron Holland all returned, and Duren remained with the team following protracted offseason negotiations. However, the regular-season success did not carry over into the 2026 playoffs, where the team's inexperience and the pressure of the postseason exposed their shortcomings.
The primary issue was a lack of depth beyond the starting five and a few core bench players. The 2025-2026 roster lacked perimeter shooting, which cramped the floor and made it difficult for Duren and Cunningham to operate. Both stars often faced congested driving lanes, and the entire core felt the strain of a thin bench, which ultimately caught up with them in the playoffs.
Offseason Additions Making an Immediate Impact
Seeking to bolster support for Cunningham, the front office prioritized adding perimeter shooters. While they did not acquire the secondary playmaker they sought, they did bring in Isaiah Joe, Taurean Prince, and Gary Harris to join Robinson and Kevin Huerter. Some newcomers have adjusted faster than others, but there is plenty of time for the rest to find their rhythm.
Detroit also added reinforcements for Duren, which has been crucial during his injury absence. Paul Reed has stepped up significantly, and new addition John Collins has quickly found his groove. Once Duren returns, it will be intriguing to see how the coaching staff manages the three big men together. The combination of reliable size and improved perimeter shooting holds significant potential.
Defense has been a major area of improvement this season, even with Duren sidelined. The Pistons rank among the league leaders in blocks and steals, thanks in large part to their deeper bench, which provides a wider array of defensive options and has transformed the team's profile on that end of the court.
How Depth Will Aid the Postseason Push
A stronger defense, better perimeter shooting, improved spacing, and more support in the paint should translate to a deeper playoff run. This is a more balanced unit with greater flexibility and a bench that can effectively support the starters. That advantage will be critical when facing the NBA's elite teams in the playoffs.
Moreover, the added depth will help the Pistons close out playoff series more efficiently and with greater confidence. Detroit doesn't just need to beat teams like the 76ers or Celtics once; they have to do it four times. That was the challenge that tripped them up in 2026, especially when Duren endured cold stretches. With expanded depth, the team can better weather adversity and compensate if Duren struggles.
It also gives the Pistons a fighting chance in a loaded Eastern Conference full of talented contenders.
The Bottom Line
The front office learned some hard lessons from last season's playoff exit, but those lessons have already paid off. The offseason bench overhaul is bearing fruit with the team off to an 8-3 start, a strong beginning for a squad integrating several new players while Duren is out injured. More importantly, the Pistons now look like a roster capable of making real noise in the playoffs.
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Originally reported by yahoo.