The Detroit Pistons have welcomed former Michigan star Caris LeVert to their roster, hoping to build on his talent and the shooting prowess of Duncan Robinson, who is set to join him after leaving the Miami Heat. Although a potential reunion with Tim Hardaway Jr. fell through as he signed with the Denver Nuggets, the duo of LeVert and Robinson, alongside star guard Cade Cunningham, promises to enhance the Pistons' offensive capabilities.

Robinson, who secured a lucrative three-year deal worth $48 million, has made quite the journey since his college days at Williams and Michigan, navigating the G League before earning a $90 million contract with the Heat, marking a significant achievement for an undrafted player. This move from Miami to Detroit not only solidifies the Pistons' shooting game but also emphasizes the franchise's commitment to building a competitive team.

The Detroit Pistons have made a remarkable turnaround, finishing with 30 wins and making the NBA Playoffs for the first time since 2019, after a last-place finish in the Eastern Conference the previous season. Key to this success has been the impressive performance of Cade Cunningham, who saw his scoring average rise from 22.7 to 26.1 points per game, alongside an increase in assists from 7.5 to 9.1. Cunningham's improvement earned him a finalist spot for the Most Improved Player award.

Despite a first-round playoff exit against the New York Knicks, the Pistons celebrated their first playoff victory since 2008. Dennis Schroder, acquired mid-season, has expressed a desire to stay with the team as he approaches free agency. However, uncertainty looms over the Pistons' roster decisions, particularly regarding other free agents and the potential impact of Jaden Ivey's return on Schroder's playing time.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker, an underrated player, is garnering interest around the league as he approaches unrestricted free agency. The Minnesota Timberwolves, who recently secured Naz Reid on a long-term deal, face a dilemma with Alexander-Walker, especially with Julius Randle's impending extension. The Detroit Pistons are among the teams considering him due to his potential fit alongside Cade Cunningham in the backcourt.

Although Alexander-Walker excels as a 3-and-D asset, his role in Detroit may limit his minutes with players like Cunningham and Malik Beasley already in the mix. Meanwhile, retaining him in Minnesota could enhance their championship ambitions alongside Anthony Edwards. Ultimately, if a better offer arises from Detroit or elsewhere, Alexander-Walker might consider leaving, despite the tempting potential of a Pistons backcourt.

The Detroit Pistons made a significant leap last season, transforming from a bottom-tier team to a playoff contender, largely thanks to Cade Cunningham's emergence as an All-Star. The culture shift under head coach JB Bickerstaff has set a strong foundation for future development, as the Pistons now look to solidify their core while adding complementary talent. With the offseason underway and free agency approaching, the Pistons have shifted focus after losing out on big man Naz Reid, who recently signed a contract extension with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Key targets such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Santi Aldama have emerged as potential additions. With the Timberwolves facing financial constraints in retaining their free agents, Detroit's salary cap flexibility could allow them to make strategic acquisitions. Aldama, known for his shooting prowess, could greatly enhance the floor spacing for Cunningham and the team's offensive strategy. Given the wide-open nature of the Eastern Conference, the Pistons are well-positioned to build on last year’s success.

The Detroit Pistons selected Chaz Lanier with the 37th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft, aiming to bolster their roster after a notable improvement from the previous season's record. Lanier, a sharpshooter from Tennessee, is praised for his scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, with a career 40.2% three-point shooting percentage. Analysts believe he addresses a critical need for the Pistons, especially with key players potentially departing in free agency.

Grading reviews on the pick range from B to A+, with experts noting Lanier's shooting skills and potential fit alongside Cade Cunningham. His performance in college has drawn comparisons to Malik Beasley, suggesting he could be a valuable addition to the Pistons' depth on the wing. Lanier's selection reflects a continued strategy by the Pistons to surround their young core with reliable scoring options.