The Detroit Pistons open training camp with major questions to answer after a tough playoff exit. President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff have changed the culture, but clear issues need solving for the new season.
The biggest immediate issue is the contract standoff with restricted free agent Jalen Duren. Reports indicate his camp turned down a five-year, $200 million offer. That leaves both sides at an impasse with the October 1 qualifying offer deadline fast approaching. Detroit could theoretically extend that deadline to March 1, but there's no sign they will. Duren's leverage may expire in days. The Pistons recently waived Gary Harris, a move seen as clearing cap space for when Duren eventually re-signs. His absence was felt in the playoffs, where the team lacked interior presence.
Finding a reliable ball-handler behind star Cade Cunningham is a priority. Last season, an early injury to Marcus Sasser created a problem. Daniss Jenkins emerged from the G-League as a competent solution, but the Pistons can't rely on luck again. Now, Jenkins faces competition. First-round pick Ebuka Okorie impressed in Summer League, averaging nearly 20 points per game. Veteran Elijah Harkless offers lockdown perimeter defense and secondary creation. This three-man battle will be a focal point of camp, as Bickerstaff decides who best fits his system.
With Tobias Harris now in the West, John Collins is the favorite to start at power forward. Acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers, Collins brings a different skill set. He's a three-point threat and explosive finisher at the rim, adding new dimensions to the offense. His production dipped last season, but playing alongside a playmaker like Cunningham could spark a revival. Collins is a veteran, but he'll need training camp and the preseason to build chemistry with his new teammates. Integrating him smoothly is important for Detroit's offensive balance, especially after scoring struggles in the Cleveland series. Addressing these camp questions is the first step to building a more resilient playoff team.
