Detroit’s rise last season put the Pistons on notice, with Cunningham emerging as All-NBA-caliber and the team flirting with a legitimate playoff window. This piece weighs a bold, temp-ready upgrade: pairing Cunningham with Tyler Herro and Nikola Jovic from Miami. The proposed trade would move Ron Holland and Tobias Harris plus two protected firsts and a first-round swap for Herro and Jovic, testing Detroit’s flexibility and long-term continuity in a softened Eastern Conference.

The debate hinges on roster fit, defensive impact, and whether internal growth can sustain momentum. Langdon champions flexibility and development, while the mock trades suggest the ceiling could spike quickly if Detroit bets on a high-powered backcourt duo that aligns with Cunningham’s prime years.

Javonte Green signed with Detroit on a one-year deal, adding defensive savvy and toughness to a wing rotation that already features dynamic young wings. The deal makes 14 players under contract for the Pistons next season, though it isn’t clear if it’s fully guaranteed. Green, 32, is known for his perimeter defense and two-way versatility, averaging 5.1 points and 3.2 rebounds split between New Orleans and Cleveland last year after a Pelicans buyout.

Detroit’s likely starting duo appears to be Jaden Ivey and Ausar Thompson, with Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson coming off the bench behind them. Marcus Sasser and Ron Holland II should also be in the mix. The aim: push the defense into the top 10, giving coach a deeper, more flexible rotation on the wings. The addition reinforces a commitment to defense and adds another solid option in the backcourt/wing mix.

Green’s signing broadens the Pistons’ defensive schemes and offers a reliable defender to guard multiple positions. The wing depth will be tested as Ivey and Ausar anchor the lineup, with LeVert, Robinson, Sasser and Holland pushing for minutes as Detroit pursues a tougher, more versatile defensive identity.

The Detroit Pistons are looking to build on their remarkable turnaround last season, when they transitioned from the worst record in the NBA to a playoff appearance. This offseason has been tumultuous, highlighted by the investigation into Malik Beasley related to gambling allegations, leading to stalled contract negotiations. Losing Dennis Schroder and Tim Hardaway Jr. in free agency added to their challenges. However, the acquisition of Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson via a sign-and-trade has bolstered their bench scoring. Despite these ups and downs, there's optimism surrounding the development of their young core, including Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Ron Holland II, positioning the Pistons as potential contenders in the Eastern Conference.

The Detroit Pistons showcased their talent at the Las Vegas Summer League, wrapping up with a 3-2 record. Rookie guard Chaz Lanier was a focal point for the team, but second-year forward Ron Holland II also stood out. Holland II earned a spot on the NBA 2K26 All-Summer League Second Team after averaging 21.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 4.0 steals across three games, shooting an impressive 52.8% from the field. This recognition highlights his significant improvement and potential for a larger role next season, especially with the departure of Tim Hardaway Jr.

As a fifth pick in the 2024 draft, Holland II's performance suggests he will play a crucial role in the Pistons' rotation alongside fellow young stars Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson. The coaching staff, led by J.B. Bickerstaff, may consider elevating him to a starting position if he continues to progress, making him a player to watch as the season approaches.

The Detroit Pistons are positioning themselves for a competitive 2025 season with strategic offseason moves, including the addition of young guard Chaz Lanier from the NBA Draft. While Lanier's Summer League performance was modest, other players like Ron Holland II and Daniss Jenkins stood out. Holland II, the fifth overall pick in 2024, shined with an impressive 21.7 points per game, showcasing his potential as a future star. Jenkins, undrafted in 2024, also made waves, averaging 14.0 points and positioning himself for a key role. With these developments, Detroit looks to strengthen its core as they aim for a top seed in the Eastern Conference.