Each NBA team’s projected starting lineup for 2023–24
By Cal Durrett
Projected starting lineup: Detroit Pistons
Point Guard: Cade Cunningham
Shooting Guard: Jaden Ivey
Small Forward: Bojan Bogdanovic
Power Forward: Isaiah Stewart
Center: Jalen Duren
The Pistons likely ranked as the most disappointing team last season after having a strong 2022 draft and offseason. They won just 17 games last season and had the worst record in the NBA, with 2021 number-one overall pick Cade Cunningham missing all but 69 games. Worse yet, despite finishing with the worst record, they ended up with the fifth pick and missed out on drafting top prospect Victor Wembanyama.
Instead, they added Ausuar Thompson, though he may not start this season. All things considered, with the Pistons back to full strength and not tanking—at least to start the season—they actually appear to have a good starting lineup. Cunningham being back should help them significantly with his size, court vision, and ability to slither into the paint and finish.
He’ll also have enough shooting around with Ivey and Bogdanovic, as well as Stewart, who can knock down open threes. They’ll also have second-year center Jalen Duren, who was very productive during his rookie season.
He projects to be a very good shot blocker and rebounder who can catch Cunningham-thrown lobs. Ultimately, the Pistons probably won’t come close to making the playoffs, but they have a capable starting lineup that could potentially double their win total from last season.