Detroit Pistons: 5 keys to making the playoffs in 2017-18

5. All-Stars are playoff contenders

The lack of parity in the NBA improves the Detroit Pistons’ chances of making the playoffs and getting their big names to the NBA All-Star team.

The disparity between the Eastern and Western Conferences is so great the NBA is considering changing the playoff structure of the NBA.

"“In the 2014-15 season, the Oklahoma City Thunder missed the Western Conference playoffs with a record of 45-37, while the Brooklyn Nets secured the eighth and final seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs with a record of 38-44. The new seeding system would prevent imbalances like this from happening.”"

The last time the Pistons made the playoffs, Andre Drummond took home the NBA rebounding title and played in his first All-Star game.

Head coach Stan Van Gundy understands the Detroit Pistons’ playoff hopes largely rely on Andre Drummond having the kind of season that gets him back in the All-Star game.

"“He’s worked hard this summer to get himself in better shape and be able to play with more energy for longer periods of time. I think that’s the biggest step he could take this summer beyond any skill thing. “I think he understands the correlation between All-Star berth and how the team’s doing,” Van Gundy said. “All those awards and honors tend to follow team success.”"

The Pistons could potentially have two All-Stars on their roster this year.  Having multiple All-Stars on a healthy team would almost make the Pistons a shoo-in for a playoff spot.

Detroit’s other potential All-Star weapon is Avery Bradley. The Pistons acquired Bradley when they traded Marcus Morris to Boston. In addition to superior defensive skills, Bradley is a veteran with playoff experience.