Pistons Lead NBA Post-All-Star
The Detroit Pistons enter the post-All-Star break with the NBA's best record alongside Oklahoma City Thunder, marking a stunning surge for the formerly struggling franchise. The turnaround has been driven by Cade Cunningham's leadership and a defense-first mentality as the regular season resumes Thursday. The Thunder share the top spot behind their reigning MVP and high-energy system.
- The Detroit Pistons' 40-13 record marks a significant turnaround for a franchise that had the worst record in its history at the All-Star break just four years ago. The team has not secured a playoff series victory since 2008. - A key to the Pistons' success has been their resilience; they are 11-2 following a loss and have a league-low three defeats by 10 or more points. They also hold the league's best record against teams at .500 or better, with a 17-6 record. - Cade Cunningham has been a statistical leader for the Pistons, averaging 25.3 points, 9.6 assists, and 5.6 rebounds in 47 games this season. - The Oklahoma City Thunder, with a record of 42-14, are the defending NBA champions, having defeated the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA Finals. - The Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the reigning league MVP and was also the NBA Finals MVP in 2025. He is currently in contention for a consecutive scoring title, averaging 31.8 points per game. - Detroit's challenging post-All-Star break schedule begins with a road game against the New York Knicks. The Pistons will be shorthanded for this game, with both Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart out due to suspensions. - The Pistons' dramatic improvement follows several seasons of struggle, including a 14-68 record in the 2023-24 season and a 17-65 record the year prior. - Center Jalen Duren, who earned his first All-Star selection this season, is averaging a career-high 17.7 points and 10.4 rebounds per game.
