To surprise the Eastern Conference, the Detroit Pistons must prove themselves early. The Pistons face a daunting challenge right out of the gate in the 2024-25 NBA season. In their first ten games, they’ll square off against eight teams in playoff contention last season, including the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers, who boast MVP-caliber talent in Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid.
While the opening weeks are filled with challenges, the Pistons have an opportunity to build momentum as the season progresses. The mid-season schedule offers a chance to gain ground—will they capitalize or let early struggles derail them? Here are some key takeaways and predictions for the Pistons’ 2024-25 season.
The Pistons 2024-25 Season: Key Projections and Predictions
The 2024-25 Pistons Best Month
November could be a turning point for the Pistons, with a 17-game slate that includes nine home games and eight on the road. This month also features three of their four NBA Cup Games, adding an extra layer of intensity as teams compete for early bragging rights in this new format. In the first five games, the Pistons project to go 3-2, with wins on 11/3 when they visit the Brooklyn Nets, 11/6 when they visit the Charlotte Hornets, and 11/8 when they host the Hawks. These wins stem from favorable matchups and the Pistons’ improving cohesion.
As November progresses, the Pistons will alternate wins and losses before hitting their stride with a five-game winning streak from 11/15 to 11/25. This stretch could be the momentum shift they need, with the confidence-building game by game. However, a tough matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies on 11/27 will likely start a three-game losing streak to close the month. The Grizzlies, led by a returning Ja Morant, will be on a revenge tour after missing the entire season due to a shoulder injury. The road games against the Pacers and Sixers are tough challenges that the Pistons might need help to overcome.
With a projected October record of 2-3, a 9-8 November would bring the Pistons to .500 going into December—a significant improvement from last season when they entered December with just two wins. This nine-game improvement would reignite hope and draw fans back to fill the stands at Little Caesars Arena.
The 2024-25 Pistons Worst Month
After a strong November that saw the Pistons finish over .500, December is poised to be their toughest month yet. The challenges begin early, with back-to-back losses to the Milwaukee Bucks on 12/3 and the Boston Celtics on 12/4—two of the Eastern Conference’s powerhouses. The difficulties continue with a loss to the New York Knicks on 12/7, as the Pistons struggle to keep pace with a more seasoned roster.
After a break for the NBA Cup final, the Pistons host the Jazz on 12/19, a winnable game for relief. However, the momentum may be short-lived as December 21st begins a grueling four-game West Coast trip. The Pistons face the Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings, and Denver Nuggets quickly and are projected to win only one game—against the Kings on December 26th. The tough competition, high altitude, and Phoenix and Los Angeles star power make this road trip daunting.
With a December record of 2-6, the Pistons will likely enter January with a 13-17 record. Finishing below .500 is not ideal, but it’s a significant improvement from last season’s 3-29 start. This improvement keeps them within striking distance of a play-in tournament spot, giving fans a reason to stay hopeful.
All-Star Break
Heading into the All-Star break, the Pistons project a 24-29 record. Despite the record reflecting growing pains, Detroit will still have a strong presence at All-Star Weekend in San Francisco.
- Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland will showcase their talent in the Rookies vs. Sophomores game.
- Simone Fontecchio will join the three-point contest, showcasing his sharpshooting, a crucial weapon for the Pistons.
- Holland will bring his explosive athleticism to the Slam Dunk Contest.
As for the All-Star Game, Cade Cunningham will be in the conversation for a roster spot. However, competition is fierce, with established stars like Donovan Mitchell, Trae Young, and LaMelo Ball all vying for guard positions.
Returning to the regular season, the Pistons will likely struggle in their early games. They’ll likely finish February with a 1-4 record, starting with consecutive losses to the Spurs on 2/21 and the Hawks on 2/23. A win against the Clippers on 2/24 will provide a brief respite before the Pistons close out the month with tough matchups against the Celtics on 2/26 and the Nuggets on 2/28—two teams with championship aspirations.
Projecting The 2024-25 Pistons Stretch Run
The Pistons will face an even split of home and road matchups in their final 18 games. With a 25-33 record heading into March, they project to finish the regular season with a 9-13 run. However, as the season winds down, the Pistons could end on a four-game losing streak, finishing with a 35-45 record.
Last season, the Atlanta Hawks secured the 10th seed in the Eastern Conference with 36 wins. If the Hawks and Bulls shift toward rebuilding, the Pistons could seize the opportunity and secure the 10th seed. While a 35-45 record might not be ideal, it could be enough to keep Detroit in the postseason conversation.
The Last Word
The 2024-25 season presents the Detroit Pistons with a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. Despite a tough December and final stretch, the team’s young core shows promise and resilience. A 35-45 finish may seem modest, but it could set the stage for a play-in tournament spot and future success. This season is about growth, laying the foundation for the Pistons to become again a force in the Eastern Conference. The journey will be long, but the building blocks are falling into place.
Side Note: Depending on two unscheduled games due to the NBA Cup, the Pistons will finish 37-45, 36-46, or 35-47.
