We’re just 73 days away from the tip-off of a new NBA season, and eyes will be on the Detroit Pistons after a whirlwind offseason. While the league had a relatively quiet summer, Detroit was buzzing with activity, making bold moves to help change fans’ expectations on and off the court. Trajan Langdon’s hiring, Monty Williams’ firing, and the acquisition of Tobias Harris set the stage for a transformative 2024-25 season.
The Pistons can make further additions with 14 guaranteed contracts, $11.5 million in cap space, and $7.9 million in exceptions. Free agents like Tyus Jones, Isaac Okoro, and Precious Achiuwa could provide the final piece to the Pistons’ roster.
New head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, renowned for his defensive acumen and player development, now has the task of molding this retooled roster into a cohesive unit. The Pistons’ over/under this season is 24.5 wins, signaling potential growth for a team that struggled mightily last season.
How will the depth chart shake out? Which players will emerge as starters, and who will carve out critical roles in the rotation? Let’s dive into the Pistons’ depth chart and explore the possibilities for the upcoming season.
Detroit Pistons Depth Chart: Starters and Rotations Analysis
Pistons Depth Chart: The Projected Starting Five
- Point Guard: Cade Cunningham
- Shooting Guard: Jaden Ivey
- Small Forward: Simone Fontecchio
- Power Forward: Tobias Harris
- Center: Jalen Duren
This lineup gives the Pistons their best chance to win games. Last season, the Pistons struggled with shooting, ranking 29th in the league in three-pointers made. Despite his playmaking abilities, Cunningham was in the top 10 for turnovers as defenses clogged the paint. This lineup addresses those issues by adding reliable shooters and spacing the floor.
The Jaden Ivey Effect
Ivey’s inclusion might raise some eyebrows, but his athleticism and potential are undeniable. While his three-point shooting needs improvement, his ability to score in transition and defensive effort makes him a valuable asset. When Marcus Sasser or Malik Beasley comes off the bench, Ivey can shift to a more ball-dominant role, showcasing his dynamic abilities more. Ivey’s work ethic and physical tools make him a potential defensive stopper, an area he needs to grow in with this group.
Jalen Duren Has To Take The Next Step Defensively
This group’s defensive success also hinges on Duren’s development as an interior presence. As an athletic big man, Duren has shown flashes of brilliance in the paint but needs to become a consistent rim protector. Averaging less than one block per game is below his potential, and this season, he must anchor the defense. While Ivey and Fontecchio put solid efforts on the perimeter, their effectiveness largely depends on Duren’s ability to clean up their mistakes.
Fontecchio Over Thompson
While Ausar Thompson’s potential is exciting, Fontecchio’s shooting makes him the ideal choice for starting small forward. Fontecchio shot an impressive 42% from three in 16 games with the Pistons, compared to Thompson’s 18%. While Thompson offers versatility and defensive prowess, starting him alongside Ivey could compromise floor spacing. Therefore, Thompson’s impact might be better maximized off the bench, where he can still play crucial minutes and develop his game.
Pistons Depth Chart: Rotational Players
- 6th Man: Malik Beasley
- 7th Man: Isaiah Stewart
- 8th Man: Ausar Thompson
- 9th Man: Marcus Sasser
Bickerstaff typically utilizes an eight to nine-man rotation, so the Pistons’ depth chart aims for the higher end with this projection. This group offers a potent mix of defensive prowess and offensive firepower. Sasser and Thompson are expected to contribute significantly on defense, which will be crucial when facing opposing second units. Despite Thompson’s ongoing development with his shot, his overall impact on the game through his defensive and playmaking skills will be valuable.
Isaiah Stewart’s New Role
Stewart is set to thrive in his new role coming off the bench. Last season, Stewart averaged 10.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists with solid shooting splits of 48/38/75%. While he showed potential as a starter, his offensive contributions could have been more extensive, particularly at the power-forward spot. With Harris being brought in to take on more offensive responsibilities, Stewart’s transition to the bench allows him to maintain his effectiveness, providing energy and rebounding while complementing the second unit’s needs.
Malik Beasley… Dark Horse 6MOTY Candidate?
Beasley could be a serious contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award, drawing parallels to Malik Monk’s impact with the Kings. Beasley is a prolific three-point shooter with a knack for scoring in bunches. His ability to get hot from beyond the arc will be a crucial asset off the bench. Defensively, he will benefit from the support of Sasser, Thompson, and Stewart, enabling him to focus on maximizing his offensive output without being overly exposed on defense.
Burst of Energy Minutes
While these players might be lower on the Pistons depth chart, they can provide crucial energy boosts when the team needs it most. Reliable, high-energy players can shift momentum and reinvigorate the team and fans when leading rotation players struggle.
Veterans That Can Change The Tide Of A Game
Reed and Hardaway Jr. can deliver significant contributions if called upon. Reed, who started 24 games for the Sixers without Joel Embiid, averaged 10.3 points and 7.7 rebounds while shooting 52% from the field in 26 minutes per game. His per-36-minute stats—13.6 points, 11.6 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.9 blocks on 54/36/71% shooting—underscore his efficiency and ability to impact in limited minutes. While Reed is not suited for extended minutes, his defensive prowess and energy can be game-changers in short bursts.
Hardaway Jr., despite being moved to the bench during the playoffs, was the Mavericks’ third-leading scorer last season. His 36% career three-point shooting average suggests his recent slump is likely temporary. Hardaway Jr. can still be a reliable scorer and floor spacer, though his playing time might be limited as the Pistons focus on developing their young talent. Balancing his desire for minutes with the team’s developmental goals will be essential.
The #5 Overall Pick
Holland showcased two-way potential during the summer league, hinting at an exciting future. While he may not get significant rotation minutes this season, his time on the floor will allow him to make electrifying plays that energize the crowd and provide glimpses of his potential. Holland’s development will be crucial, focusing on refining his skills and understanding the game professionally. Expect him to be a fan favorite with his athleticism and enthusiasm.
Pistons Depth Chart: Bench Warmers
These two are likely candidates to spend significant time with the Motor City Cruise in the G-League this season. This will give them valuable playing time and an opportunity to fine-tune their skills.
Untapped Potential That Needs To Be Tapped
Moore Jr. is a promising talent with solid defensive abilities and potential as a versatile wing player. However, he needs to develop his offensive consistency and decision-making. G-League time will improve his shooting, ball-handling, and game understanding, making him a more well-rounded player.
Klintman is an exciting prospect with impressive shooting and playmaking skills. His Summer League shooting percentages (42% from the field and 41% from three) highlight his scoring potential, while his 3.8 assists per game demonstrate his vision and ability to create for others. Klintman’s development in the G-League will focus on improving his defensive capabilities and physicality to handle the NBA’s competitive environment better. With continued growth, Klintman could become a valuable stretch-four or versatile forward for the Pistons.
The Last Word
The Pistons have crafted a well-rounded depth chart that balances experienced veterans with promising young talent. This season will test their cohesion and development, but the Pistons will make notable strides with the right mix of players and strategic rotations. Fans should be excited about this team’s promising direction and potential for sustained success.
