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NBA Power Rankings Week 21: Are the Philadelphia 76ers the best bet to win it all?

By Corey Rausch

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 13: Joel Embiid #21 and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Miami Heat during the first quarter at American Airlines Arena on May 13, 2021 in Miami, Florida. 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 Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 13: Joel Embiid #21 and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Miami Heat during the first quarter at American Airlines Arena on May 13, 2021 in Miami, Florida. 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 Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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NBA, Sixers (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
NBA, Sixers (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

29. Detroit Pistons

Last Week: Lost to Chicago Bulls 108-96, Lost to Minnesota Timberwolves 119-100, Lost Denver Nuggets 104-91, Lost to Miami Heat 120-107

Over/Under Projection; Guess/Result: 24; Under; Right

The Detroit Pistons were likely ready for the season to end the moment they moved into the second-best lottery odds. The first season under Troy Weaver was meant to build a culture, develop the young talent on the roster and earn another top pick to hopefully land a franchise player. Given that the two non-lottery first-round selections from 2020 seem likely to make All-Rookie teams, the restoration appears to be off to a good start.

Jerami Grant made a push for the Most Improved Player award and showed that Weaver and company were smart to be on him. Killian Hayes suffered a damaging hip injury but upon his return, he showed flashes of the playmaker and defender that was taken seventh overall. The development of Saddiq Bey and Isaiah Stewart has been talked about ad nauseam, but Frank Jackson, Mason Plumlee and Josh Jackson had career years as well.

Dwane Casey was given a contract extension with a week to go in the season and it was well deserved. He had his best year with the Pistons, showing the ability to develop young talent while preserving the tank. Detroit needs to add one of the top talents in the draft to make it all worth it and they have put themselves in a prime position to do so.