NBA Power Rankings: Way too early pre-season predictions

Added: Cade Cunningham, Isaiah Livers, Luka Garza, Kelly Olynyk, Jamorko Pickett, Chris Smith

Lost: Tyler Cook, Deividas Sirvydis, Mason Plumlee, Wayne Ellington, Dennis Smith Jr., Sekou Doumbouya, Jahlil Okafor

Getting the number one pick in a loaded draft is a great way to kick-start the restoration of the franchise. The Detroit Pistons added Cade Cunningham to an already promising young core. Saddiq Bey and Isaiah Stewart spent time with the US Select Team this summer. Killian Hayes profiles as an elite defender and passer. Add in newly minted Olympian Jerami Grant and newly-added Kelly Olynyk and there is finally a reason for optimism in the Motor City.

Despite the positivity surrounding the franchise after another presumably strong draft class, wins should not be expected to follow this coming season. The projected starting lineup of Hayes, Cunningham, Bey, Jerami Grant and Stewart have an average age of 22. Key players off the bench like Saben Lee, Hamidou Diallo and Frank Jackson are all 23 or younger. Despite the talent, there will be growing pains.

The Pistons will be a fun watch this season. They have plenty of young talent and will always have multiple playmakers on the court. However, this season is about progress and developing young talent. After adding the top pick in the draft, the culture is prepared to shift. If they could be bad enough to add another high lottery pick next season that will be the makings of a special future.