With the 2024-25 All-Star festivities now complete, the Detroit Pistons are gearing up for their playoff push. At 29-26, they hold a 2.5-game lead over the Orlando Magic for the sixth and final automatic playoff spot. Riding a four-game winning streak, they have momentum on their side, but the road ahead won’t be easy.
In the second half of the season, the Pistons will face some of the league’s biggest stars and most complete teams, meaning they’ll have to earn their postseason spot. It’s a challenge that J.B. Bickerstaff and his squad embrace as they look to shake the long-standing negative perception of Pistons basketball. So, what can we expect in the weeks ahead? Can the Pistons continue to defy expectations? Let’s dive in.
How The Pistons Second Half Can Prove Playoff Worthiness
Pistons’ Second Half Starts With Tough Stretch
The All-Star break can be both a blessing and a challenge for Pistons fans. On one hand, it provides much-needed rest for the players. On the other, it risks disrupting the momentum they built heading into the break. Either way, the Pistons will need to hit the ground running.
Their next five games present a major test: a matchup with Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, a battle against the defending champion Boston Celtics, and a showdown with Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets. With the Hawks and Clippers also in the mix, this stretch is the perfect opportunity for the Pistons to prove that their strong first half was no fluke.
Dennis Schröder’s Ongoing Transition To The Pistons’ System
One of the biggest factors in the Pistons’ second-half success will be Dennis Schröder . Acquired at the trade deadline, Schröder was brought in to serve as a reliable secondary ball-handler and playmaker alongside Cade Cunningham .
Before the trade, Schröder was having a solid season with the Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors, averaging 14.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game over 47 games (41 starts). However, his transition to the Pistons has come with some growing pains. In his three games with the team, Schröder has played in just 16.3 minutes per game—down from his previous 29.7-minute average. He is averaging just 5.7 points, shooting just 26% from the field but a respectable 37% from three while also contributing 3.7 assists per game.
While his scoring numbers haven’t yet translated, Schröder’s leadership has been evident. He is frequently seen pulling teammates aside to discuss communication breakdowns and offering guidance on how to improve. For a young team building its identity, a veteran presence like Schröder could be invaluable during the stretch run.
Staying Healthy
One of the most overlooked factors in the Pistons’ season has been their health. Outside of Jaden Ivey , Detroit has remained relatively injury-free. Eight players have played at least 50 of 55 games, with Malik Beasley and Ron Holland appearing in all of them.
Consistency in availability is crucial for a team’s success. The Pistons have used 12 different starting lineups this season—a stark contrast to a team like the Charlotte Hornets , who have shuffled through 29. That lack of stability has contributed to Charlotte’s struggles, as they sit at just 13-39. Staying healthy will be vital for the Pistons in the second half. The Pistons aim to stay healthy, build chemistry, and maintain continuity while pushing for the playoffs.
The Last Word
The Pistons are at a critical juncture in their season. With a strong first half and key games ahead, they can prove they belong in the playoffs. Schröder’s leadership, team health, and momentum will be crucial for Detroit’s second-half push. While the road ahead won’t be easy, the Pistons have shown they’re more than capable of exceeding expectations.
If they stay healthy, continue to grow as a team, and remain focused on the task at hand, they could turn their solid start into a legitimate postseason run. It’s a challenge, but one the Pistons are ready to embrace. The next few weeks will determine if this young team is truly ready for the playoffs.
Photo credit: © David Reginek-Imagn Images
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