The Detroit Pistons, who earned the Eastern Conference sixth seed this season, could be in position to take advantage of the situation if the Bucks and Celtics slump next season.
“Understanding what it’s taken our team, our city to get here. And for our men, our players, who have done this. So I feel really lucky to have those young men. And it means a lot. But we’re not done."
The Pistons’ turnaround from being one of the worst teams in league history to being in firm control of a playoff spot has garnered praise from national voices.
The plan crafted alongside new President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon to add veterans like Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr. and Paul Reed was intentional.
Just before Christmas, with the franchise in the throes of a historic losing streak, Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores took accountability and promised things would change.
During Q&A session with NBC Sports broadcaster Mike Tirico, Gores discusses Platinum origins, civic engagement, diversity goals and philanthropy: ‘We’re just scratching the surface’