Key Highlights:
Toronto, April 5, 2025 – The NBA’s biggest surprise of the season is here: The Detroit Pistons are back in the playoffs — and they’ve done it in historic fashion. With a 117-105 win over the Toronto Raptors on Friday night, the Pistons clinched their first postseason berth since 2018-19, only a year after finishing with the worst record in the league.
From Rock Bottom to Redemption
In 2023-24, Detroit ended the season with just 14 wins, making them the worst team in the NBA. Fast forward 12 months, and they now hold a 43-34 record with five games remaining in the regular season.
No team in NBA history has ever gone from worse than 14 wins to a playoff berth the following year — until now.
“It’s a big deal,” said first-year head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “This group deserves a moment to reflect. What they’ve done is special.”
Jalen Duren: The Heart of the Hustle
Rising star Jalen Duren led the way with 21 points and 18 rebounds in the victory over Toronto. After struggling through two losing seasons to start his NBA career, the young center is finally reaping the rewards of perseverance.
“People doubted us,” Duren said. “They thought it would take longer to turn things around — but we’re here now. We’re not done yet.”
Duren emphasized that while reaching the playoffs is significant, the Pistons’ ultimate goal is a championship.
Detroit’s NBA Playoff History: Long Road Back
- Last playoff appearance: 2019 (swept by Milwaukee in the first round)
- Previous playoff series win: 2008 (Eastern Conference Finals run)
- Recent postseason exits: 2009, 2016, and 2019 — all first-round sweeps
This season marks a break from the past. Detroit fans now hope their team can go beyond the first round for the first time in 17 years.
What’s Next for Detroit?
Currently sitting at 43-34, the Pistons are still jostling for seeding in the Eastern Conference. With five regular-season games remaining, they could climb further — or set up a potential first-round upset.
Key Stats:
- Season Record: 43-34
- Last 10 Games: 7-3
- Postseason Clinched: Yes
- Games Left: 5
- Star Performer: Jalen Duren – 21 PTS, 18 REB vs TOR
FAQs
Q: When was the last time the Pistons made the NBA Playoffs?
A: The last time was in 2018-19, when they were swept by the Milwaukee Bucks.
Q: Who is the Pistons’ head coach in 2025?
A: J.B. Bickerstaff, in his first season with the team.
Q: What makes this season historic for Detroit?
A: They’ve gone from worst record (14 wins) to a playoff berth — a first in NBA history.
Q: Who is the Pistons’ breakout player this year?
A: Jalen Duren, who has emerged as a dominant two-way force.
Q: Can the Pistons make a deep playoff run?
A: While they’re still a young team, the momentum and chemistry could help them surprise top-seeded opponents.
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