The Pistons made a monumental jump last year, improving from 14 wins to 44. They more than tripled their win total from a year prior, accelerating the rebuild so dramatically.
DraftKings Sportsbook projects Detroit to improve slightly with its win total set at 45.5. Another major increase in the win column would be rather ridiculous, but can the Pistons win a couple more games to surpass the over?
If you’re interested in seeing any of the other NBA teams’ projected win totals, check out DKN‘s master list of the full 2025-2026 NBA projected win totals.
Detroit Pistons 2025-2026 projected win total
Analysis
The Eastern Conference is wide open following Achilles injuries to Jayson Tatum, Tyrese Haliburton and Damian Lillard. The Cavaliers and Knicks are the likely frontrunners, but there’s nothing set.
The Magic, Pistons, Bucks, Hawks and Heat are all candidates to make some postseason noise. Perhaps some surprises, just like the 2024-25 Pistons, happen.
Detroit lost to the Knicks in first round of the playoffs, but that experience was invaluable. The team should return with another strong season and potentially earn a top four seed in the Eastern Conference. Given how many teams lost key players, the Pistons can sneak in and reach at least the second round of the playoffs.
Cade Cunningham should continue to elevate his game following his first All-Star and All-NBA season. He’s on the cusp of being a top 10 player in the league, so another excellent year could push him into that conversation.
The biggest concern is the potential loss of Malik Beasley. He’s more than likely not returning to the team after knocking down 319 three-pointers, one shy of the league lead. Tim Hardaway Jr. also walked, but the team acquired Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson.
Detroit Pistons projected win total: Best bets, predictions
Detroit Pistons Over 45.5 (-105)
The Pistons turned in a quick rebuild surrounding Cunningham, which led to a 44-win season in 2024-25. This team is still growing and is entering a season in a weak Eastern Conference.
Perhaps if all the East’s stars were healthy, this would be a different story. But that’s not the case. Detroit is primed for another strong season and will benefit from injured teams in the East.
To hit this over, the Pistons need to win two more games than last season. It’s extremely doable with this young core still evolving.