NBA Power Rankings Week 11: All-Star break edition

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 09: Kyrie Irving #11 and James Harden #13 of the Brooklyn Nets while playing the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on February 09, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

5 of 31

(Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

64. . 10-26. Previous: 29th. Detroit Pistons. 27. team

Last Week: Lost to New York Knicks 109-90, Beat Toronto Raptors 129-105, Lost to New York Knicks 114-104

This Week: 3/11 at Charlotte Hornets, 3/13 at Brooklyn Nets

Turns out playing against an elite defense caused fits for the young Detroit Pistons. They dropped both meetings against the New York Knicks this week by a combined 39 points and even that felt closer than it was in reality. As much as the Pistons can look competitive on a given night (like against the shorthanded Toronto Raptors), the tank is completely on.

The next step was taken this week as the All-Star break was starting. The buyout of former All-Star Blake Griffin has been completed. The Pistons now have an open roster spot and only two players who were on the team when the season paused nearly a year ago.

The Pistons have been connected to a few different trade scenarios concerning veterans like Delon Wright, Wayne Ellington and Mason Plumlee. One player who will not be on the move, despite the Boston Celtics’ reported interest, is Jerami Grant.

General manager Troy Weaver has been adamant that he sees Grant as one of the building blocks of the next great Pistons team. Grant has made it clear that he wanted to play for Weaver and head coach Dwane Casey. It is great to want things but Grant is not going to be a Boston Celtic.