The Detroit Pistons had a very successful 2025-26 campaign, finishing as the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference with a 60-22 record. But their postseason dream was shattered after losing 3-4 to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Conference Semifinals.
​After a strong season ended in a playoff disappointment due to a lack of scoring depth, experience, poor ball security, and stagnant offensive and defensive sets, the front office is now looking to retool its rotation ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Detroit Pistons Eyeing Veteran DeMar DeRozan To Support Star Guard Cade Cunningham
The Detroit Pistons have made several high-stake moves this summer, sending Isaiah Stewart, Caris LeVert, and Marcus Sasser out to clear cap space and bringing in John Collins, Taurean Prince, and Gary Harris.
​The team recently re-signed Javonte Green to a one-year, $3.9 million deal and has now set its sights on six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan, who just hit the free agency market after being waived and bought out by the Sacramento Kings. The veteran spent two seasons with the Kings, averaging 20.3 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.4 rebounds over 154 games.
While the 36-year-old is currently exploring his options, several teams across the league have shown interest in landing a player with such a prolific résumé.
“The Pistons are still evaluating the prospect of pursuing DeMar DeRozan in free agency, league sources say,” NBA insider Marc Stein reported.
It is not confirmed whether Detroit will join Toronto in bidding for DeRozan, but The Stein Line reported that the Pistons have been assessing the concept.
He noted that while the franchise sits an estimated $46 million under the luxury tax threshold, executing this move requires balancing a tight roster crunch alongside stalled extension negotiations for All-NBA star Jalen Duren and defensive standout Ausar Thompson.
Cade Cunningham steered the Pistons’ offense, averaging 23.0 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists while clocking in 33.9 minutes per game and shooting 46.1% from the field, 34.2% from the 3-point line, and 81.3% from the charity stripe.
Meanwhile, Jalen Duren enjoyed a breakout season, averaging 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game on an impressive 65.0% shooting. His efforts earned him his first career All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Third Team.
These two form one of the league’s most dominant offensive duos and powered the team’s brilliant run last season. While the Pistons hope to make a splash with their new roster, management recognizes that relying solely on youth won’t get the job done.
To truly maximize Cunningham’s prime, the roster needs an established, league-tested presence who can absorb pressure and deliver in clutch situations.
