The Pistons enjoyed an amazing regular season. It seemed like a loud pronouncement to the NBA that the dark days of the franchise were behind them, that Detroit was back in the championship picture—and would be there to stay as Cade Cunningham hit superstar status while the roster around him collectively took a big step forward.
In the big picture that remains true despite going seven games against the Magic in the first round. But the Pistons’ second-round defeat at the hands of the Cavaliers shows key figures in the organization still have a lot of growing to do.
