Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon outlined the franchise’s offseason strategy in a recent press conference. While he addressed a range of topics, one statement in particular has sparked debate among fans: the Pistons’ decision to avoid making a “super aggressive” move, like the Orlando Magic’s recent trade for Desmond Bane , which involved significant draft capital and solid assets.
With Eastern Conference stars like Jayson Tatum , Damian Lillard , and Tyrese Haliburton expected to miss significant time during the 2025–26 season, the Pistons could find themselves in a position to compete sooner than expected. That’s left some wondering if now is the time to push the chips in. At the same time, teams such as the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder have demonstrated that sustained success can be achieved by staying the course, building patiently around a young core while adding complementary veterans.
With the NBA offseason in full swing, the question becomes clear: Should Langdon seize the moment and make a bold move, or trust in a longer-term vision? And beyond that, what other takeaways from his press conference might shape the Pistons’ next chapter?
Pistons Langdon Betting on Core, Not Names This Offseason
Ron Holland Could Make a Significant Second-Year Jump
Ron Holland made his presence felt during his rookie season with the Pistons. While his stats didn’t jump off the page, his fearlessness and energy stood out. Appearing in 81 games, Holland averaged 6.4 points and 2.7 rebounds while shooting an efficient 47% from the field.
Now, with his first NBA summer ahead, all eyes turn to the Summer League—a key opportunity for Holland to showcase the growth in his game and make his case for an expanded role next season. One area of focus will be his three-point shooting. A known weakness coming out of the G League Ignite, Holland shot just 23% from beyond the arc in his rookie campaign. Still, with a consistent work ethic and proper development, there’s optimism that his perimeter shooting can take a step forward.
For Holland, the Summer League isn’t just another set of games—it’s a proving ground. If he can show improved range and continued confidence, he may force his way into a bigger role in the Pistons’ rotation.
Ausar Thompson: Future Defensive Player of the Year?
When projecting breakout players for the Pistons next season, Ausar Thompson is at the top of the list. After missing the first 18 games and easing into the rotation, Thompson quickly earned the starting small forward role. Since January 4th, he averaged 11 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game (45 starts). Since January 1st, his 87 steals ranked second in the league, trailing only Dyson Daniels .
What makes Thompson especially exciting is how much room he still has to grow. His elite athleticism, sharp instincts, and relentless energy already make him one of the most disruptive defenders in the league. A playoff matchup with Jalen Brunson exposed areas for improvement—especially in terms of foul discipline—but also served as a valuable learning experience.
If his defensive consistency continues to improve and he stays out of foul trouble, Defensive Player of the Year honors may not just be a possibility—they could be inevitable.
Langdon’s Calm in the Offseason Could Define The Pistons’ Future
With injuries sidelining some of the NBA’s biggest stars, the Eastern Conference suddenly feels wide open—and the Pistons may have a real shot to make noise. While the temptation to chase a big-name player is understandable , that shouldn’t be the path forward.
Despite a tough season, there’s reason for optimism in Detroit. Jaden Ivey was emerging as a legitimate second option before his season-ending injury. Isaiah Stewart , had he logged enough minutes, was on track for All-Defensive Team consideration. His presence alone could’ve altered the Pistons’ series against the Knicks and Karl-Anthony Towns .
Splashy moves are exciting. They generate headlines and social media buzz. But for the Pistons, the more brilliant play is to stay the course. Trust the core. Build the right way. Sometimes, the most impactful moves aren’t the loudest—they’re the ones that let your foundation grow stronger.
The Last Word
The Pistons are entering one of their most pivotal offseasons in recent memory—not because they’re one move away from contention, but because the foundation is finally taking shape. Trajan Langdon’s measured offseason approach signals a belief in the pieces already in place for the Pistons. Holland’s upcoming Summer League performance could showcase another layer of potential. Thompson is developing into a defensive anchor with DPOY upside. And despite the calls for a superstar splash, the Pistons’ best move might be no significant move at all.
The Eastern Conference may be wide open, but the Pistons don’t need to force their way through it. They’re already on the path. Allowing this young core to grow, with innovative and complementary additions along the way, could deliver a sustainable contender—one that’s built to last, not just to chase the moment.
Featured image: © Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
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