Pistons Exit After 125-94 Game 7 Rout as Offseason Decisions Loom on 60-Win Core
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 18
Pistons Exit After 125-94 Game 7 Rout as Offseason Decisions Loom on 60-Win Core
16 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 18
Detroit’s 125-94 Game 7 loss to Cleveland ended a 60-win season that still marked the franchise’s first playoff series victory in 18 years.
Detroit’s offense finally broke down under playoff pressure: its 110.4 offensive rating and 104.9 points per game were the worst among remaining teams, leaving Cade Cunningham to carry an outsized load.
Cunningham led the postseason in 571.5 minutes, 394 points and 105 assists, while Tobias Harris faded late—scoring 11 total points on 2-of-13 shooting in the final two games before unrestricted free agency.
The offseason now centers on roster calls, especially Jalen Duren’s restricted free agency after a sharp playoff drop to 10.2 points and 8.5 rebounds, and an expected rookie-scale extension push for Ausar Thompson.
Detroit still views J.B. Bickerstaff as its long-term coach after his extension, signaling the organization plans to keep building around Cunningham, Duren and Thompson despite the second-round collapse.
As the No. 1 seed exits early, what move can elevate the Pistons to true title contenders?
After his playoff collapse, should the Pistons risk their future on a max contract for Jalen Duren?