The Detroit Pistons completed one of their most successful seasons in over ten years, rebounding from a last-place finish in the Eastern Conference in 2024 to reaching the NBA Playoffs for the first time since 2019. This turnaround included securing 30 wins this season and ending a long postseason absence.
Cade Cunningham was a key contributor to Detroit’s success, elevating his performance significantly. He increased his scoring average from 22.7 points in the 2023-24 season to 26.1 points this season, while also raising his assists from 7.5 to 9.1 per game.
Dennis Schroder Shares Thoughts on His Future with the Pistons Before Free Agency
Despite the Pistons falling 4-2 to the New York Knicks in the first round of the playoffs, it marked an important milestone as Detroit won a playoff game for the first time since 2008. Cade Cunningham finished as a finalist for the Most Improved Player award, and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff was nominated for Coach of the Year, though neither secured their respective awards.
Dennis Schroder, a guard acquired by Detroit in mid-December in exchange for De’Anthony Melton, Reece Beekman, and three second-round draft picks, played a significant role in the team’s recent performance. Just ahead of becoming an unrestricted free agent, Schroder issued a candid message about his future with the Pistons.
I want to stay in Detroit, but Detroit ain’t waiting for me,
said Schroder.
Several Pistons players, including Tim Hardaway Jr. and Malik Beasley, are also set to become free agents. With promising youngsters Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland expected to receive more playing time, plus the anticipated return of Jaden Ivey, Schroder’s role and minutes on the team may diminish.
Uncertainty Looms Over Pistons’ Free Agency Decisions Amid Investigations
The Pistons are likely to explore retaining Malik Beasley, who impressed as a finalist for the Sixth Man of the Year and ranked second in the league for total three-pointers made. However, Beasley’s involvement in a federal gambling investigation just days before free agency poses a significant complication.
This legal issue is expected to deter teams from pursuing Beasley until the situation is resolved, leaving Detroit’s decisions during free agency uncertain. How these developments unfold will play a critical role in shaping the Pistons’ roster and strategy moving forward.
Looking Ahead: What Schroder’s Message Signals for Detroit’s Roster
Dennis Schroder’s frank statement highlights the transitional phase facing the Detroit Pistons as they enter free agency. While Schroder expresses a desire to remain, his comments suggest he is uncertain about the team’s plans for him. Combined with the Pistons’ burgeoning young talent and off-court challenges, Detroit’s roster moves in the coming weeks will be crucial for sustaining the recent progress and building on this season’s momentum.