The Detroit Pistons lost to the New York Knicks in a decisive Game 6 of the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. After finishing last season with just 14 wins, the Pistons significantly improved, winning 30 more games and ending the season with a record of 44-38. This achievement marks the first time the Pistons have had a winning season since 2015-16, when they were swept 4-0 in the first round by a LeBron James-led Cleveland Cavaliers team.
The Detroit Pistons finished the 2018-19 season with a record of 41-41 and entered the playoffs as the 8th seed, where the Milwaukee Bucks swept them in the first round. For the following five years, the Pistons struggled and were considered the laughingstock of the NBA. However, they have made significant improvements this season. With dedicated Pistons fans supporting the team through tough times, it’s only fair for the organization to enhance its roster and continue its progress. With NBA free agency approaching on July 6th, here are a few strategies the Pistons can consider to improve their team
Resign some of their own players.
Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Dennis Schroder are free agents. Detroit must re-sign Malik Beasley. Tim Hardaway Jr. is a nice piece to come off the bench, but this organization has to decide how much they are willing to spend on a role player. If Hardaway is willing to come back for a team discount, I would welcome him back, but if not, I would let him walk. Tim Hardaway is more suitable for a team that’s contending for a Championship; he doesn’t push the needle for an upcoming team, so it makes no sense to overpay for him.
Dennis Schroder is another player I would keep if the price tag is low. At this point in his career, he’s just an NBA backup. The 31-year-old German player is more than serviceable, but if I’m the Pistons, I’m not looking to break the bank on a player who’s played on four NBA teams this season.
2025 Free agency
When NBA free agency opens, the Pistons should prioritize signing Julius Randle and Ty Jerome. Randle has a player option remaining on his contract after this season, while Jerome is an unrestricted free agent. Randle would bring strong scoring capabilities, while Jerome would add defense, scoring, and energy. Acquiring both players would represent a significant upgrade over Tim Hardaway and Dennis Schröder. A starting lineup featuring Cade Cunningham, Ty Jerome, Julius Randle, Malik Beasley or Ausar Thompson, and Jalen Duren could potentially transform the team in Detroit..
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