The Detroit Pistons secured a spot in the playoffs on Friday night by defeating the Toronto Raptors 117-105. This achievement comes just one year after the Pistons finished with the worst record in the NBA at 14-61 and endured a 28-game losing streak, setting a league record.
Remarkably, the Pistons ended that losing streak against the same team, the Raptors, highlighting their impressive turnaround this season.
Notably, no team in NBA history has ever gone from winning just 14 games to making the playoffs the following season. With a record of 43-34 heading into their upcoming game against the Memphis Grizzlies, the Pistons have secured at least the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference, avoiding a play-in tournament spot.
“It’s a significant achievement for the team,” commented Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff after the game. “This is an opportunity for this group to reflect on their journey, the progress they’ve made, and the success they’ve achieved together. It’s truly a remarkable turnaround.”
Bickerstaff, who is in his first year as Pistons coach, was previously with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Tim Hardaway Jr. led the Pistons with 23 points, shooting 5-of-9 from beyond the arc. Jalen Duren contributed 21 points and 18 rebounds, while Malik Beasley also added 21 points.
The Pistons played without key players Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris, with Isaiah Stewart serving a suspension. Despite Toronto narrowing the gap in the fourth quarter, Detroit sealed the victory with a decisive run.
Looking ahead, the Pistons will face the Milwaukee Bucks in their final regular-season games, vying for a higher seed in the playoffs. Depending on their final position, they could potentially match up against the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks in the first round.