The Detroit Pistons are proving that they could remain one of the Eastern Conference’s top contenders for years to come.
Last year, the Pistons snapped a playoff drought by claiming the East’s sixth seed and putting up a six-game fight against the New York Knicks.
This season, the Pistons have improved and taken hold of the East’s top seed and have been doing all they can to hold it.
The Pistons are already in the 2026 NBA Playoffs. On Tuesday, the NBA announced that the Pistons can secure the Central Division title, snapping a 17-season drought.
NBA Announces The Pistons’ Clinching Scenario
GettyWASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 17: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons points skyward before playing against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on March 17, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
A simple win over the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, March 31, would do the trick.
If the Pistons can’t secure the victory, a Cleveland Cavaliers loss against the Los Angeles Lakers could help them out as well.
If both scenarios fail, then it just delays the inevitable. The Pistons are more than likely going to take their division this season.
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – OCTOBER 26: J.B. Bickerstaff head coach of the Detroit Pistons reacts against the Boston Celtics at Little Caesars Arena on October 26, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
The last time they won the division, the Pistons made a run to the Eastern Conference Finals. They got there with a 4-0 win against the Orlando Magic in round one, and closed out the Chicago Bulls 4-2 in round two.
The run was stopped short by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs defeated the Pistons 4-2 to advance to the 2008 NBA Finals.
What’s Next For The Detroit Pistons?
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 09: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons looks on during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on November 09, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
The Pistons have much higher expectations this year.
Last year, they snapped a five-year playoff drought. Simply getting there was satisfying. These days, the goal is bigger. The Pistons aren’t working on the one-seed just to bounce early. Advancing in the postseason is the next step.
There’s still some work to do before the Pistons get there. After an overtime loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Pistons are set to host the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday. The game tips off at 8 PM ET.
They’ll close out the season with games against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Hornets, and the Indiana Pacers.
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