Heading into the 2025-2026 NBA Playoffs, the Detroit Pistons are going to be the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.
Despite dealing with a major loss, as Cade Cunningham suffered a collapsed lung a few weeks back, the Pistons did more than just survive. Detroit thrived and continued winning at a high rate as they locked up the top seed.
Now, Cade Cunningham is back and ramping up for the playoffs.
GettyMIAMI, FLORIDA – MARCH 08: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles the ball against Bam Adebayo #13 of the Miami Heat during the first quarter at Kaseya Center on March 08, 2026 in Miami, Florida. 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 Rich Storry/Getty Images)
While they are getting healthy at the right time, while holding the top seed, former NBA veteran Kendrick Perkins was asked about the Pistons’ true status as contenders in the East.
He believes they are a threat–but another team should be considered the top contender to compete for an NBA Championship.
Kendrick Perkins Favors The Celtics Over The Pistons
âIâll say this: the Detroit Pistons are knocking at the door. They are a legit threat to come out of the Eastern Conference,” Perkins recently said on ESPN.
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – MARCH 12: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons looks on in the second half while playing the Philadelphia 76ers at Little Caesars Arena on March 12, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan.
“Itâs because of their young superstar, Cade Cunningham. To me, itâs a blessing in disguise that he was sidelined at this point of the season because it gave a chance for others to gain confidence. We saw them feature Jalen Duren more in the offense. ⦠Weâre never going to question the identity of the Detroit Pistons, because they are going to be a nasty defensive team always, even throughout the course of this postseason. But itâs going to come down to can they score enough points, and can the others make enough buckets to score outside of Cade to be able to create for themselves. Right now, they are trending in the right direction.â
The Pistons are entering their final two games, holding a record of 58-22. They are 7-3 over their last 10 games.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – OCTOBER 29: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons reacts after a second half basket while playing the Orlando Magic at Little Caesars Arena on October 29, 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 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
They know they are a major threat whenever Cunningham is on the court. The two-time All-Star is making a solid All-NBA case this year, and even teased a potential MVP run at a point during the season.
But Perkins saw a Cade-less Pistons team prove they could be just as dangerous. With confidence rising, the Pistons are hoping to put together a deep run.
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