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.

Detroit's offseason pivot centers on preserving a contending core while reshaping around Cunningham. Ausar Thompson, Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey return, giving Detroit a young, explosive core ready to attack a softened Eastern Conference. The Pistons added Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson to inject shot-making and playmaking, offsetting losses like Tim Hardaway Jr., Dennis Schroder and Malik Beasley. A Sports Illustrated mock trades Michael Porter Jr. from Brooklyn for Tobias Harris, Marcus Sasser, Bobi Klintman and a protected 2027 first. Porter Jr. would bring scoring punch and spacing, likely serving as the second option behind Cunningham, while his defense has improved. The deal carries risk in surrendering veteran Harris and developmental guard Sasser, and Porter Jr.’s injury history adds volatility. If Porter Jr. fits, Detroit could become a legitimate contender around its young core for the next several years.

The anticipation around Ausar Thompson is palpable as he enters his third season. The Detroit Pistons' fifth overall pick in the 2023 draft showcased his potential during last season's playoff run against the New York Knicks. Despite the team's exit in six games, Thompson's performance, particularly his rebounding skills and aggressive playstyle, stood out. Averaging 22 minutes per game, he pulled down crucial offensive boards, proving his worth on the court.

Thompson's ability to cut through defenses and create scoring opportunities is significant for his team's offensive strategies, especially when paired with dynamic players like Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren. His defensive prowess is already a highlight, and analysts predict he will develop into a formidable force across multiple positions. With the upcoming season on the horizon, all eyes will be on how swiftly Thompson can capitalize on his playoff experiences.

Amen and Ausar Thompson, the twin basketball prodigies, grace the cover of SLAM Magazine’s July 2025 issue, highlighting their unique journey and potential in the NBA. After a remarkable turnaround season, the Houston Rockets stood second in the Western Conference, largely thanks to Amen's impressive performance.

Despite not being the focal point of the magazine’s earlier features, Amen’s status as a rising star is undeniable, especially with Kevin Durant joining the Rockets. The upcoming season presents an exciting opportunity for both twins in their third year as professionals, with each already proving to be elite defenders.

The Detroit Pistons are entering the offseason hopeful of taking advantage of a weakened Eastern Conference after a successful return to the playoffs. With a young core led by Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Ausar Thompson, the franchise is exploring options to elevate their roster ahead of next season. They've been linked to various players, including Naz Reid and Myles Turner, but recent reports suggest they are in a strong position to acquire Jonathan Kuminga from the Golden State Warriors.

Kuminga, a restricted free agent, had a promising season with averages of 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, despite setbacks due to injury and limited playing time after Jimmy Butler’s addition to the Warriors. The Pistons currently have the fourth-best odds to land him in a sign-and-trade deal, with the Miami Heat leading the race. Bringing Kuminga into the fold would provide Detroit with another dynamic player capable of complementing their existing young talents.