Detroit Pistons: 3 bold predictions for the 2018-19 season

The Detroit Pistons are an interesting team in 2018. They have the ability to make some noise, and they have some unique storylines to watch this year.

The Detroit Pistons are heading into the 2018-19 NBA season with some newfound optimism after bringing in Dwane Casey as their new head coach. They have begun changing their identity by refocusing on the defensive end. Both of their draft picks do their best work on defense, which makes them good complements to their incumbent guards. The Eastern Conference has become noticeably weaker with LeBron James heading West to join the Los Angeles Lakers.

While the Pistons won’t be a title contender this season, they should make a strong push toward the playoffs. They have a lot of young pieces that are developing, and they’re going to be much healthier this season. Among the starters, including Blake Griffin, only Andre Drummond played more than 70 games last season. Griffin only played 25 games with the Pistons last year, and the chemistry with him and the rest of the team will only continue to develop.

The era of “Twin Towers” basketball is mostly in the past in today’s era of 3-point launchers spread around the floor. However, the New Orleans Pelicans showed last season that it’s not completely gone when done correctly. With Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins as the centerpieces, the Pelicans presented all sorts of problems for opponents. Detroit has the ability to present some of those same issues this season.

Last season, the Pistons underwhelmed compared to their hopes heading into the year. This year, they the ability to be even better as long as they can stay healthy.