Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon has suggested new forward John Collins could play center for the team this season. This potential positional flexibility adds a strategic option for a Pistons squad that ended its 2025-26 campaign with a 94-125 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 18, 2026.
The Pistons moved on from veteran Tobias Harris this offseason, pivoting to a sign-and-trade with the Los Angeles Clippers for John Collins. Collins, a 6-9, 225-pound forward, averaged over 13 points and five rebounds per game last season. He shot over 40% from three-point range, providing the floor-spacing and inside-outside game Detroit needs.
His ability to stretch the floor and crash the glass will be vital. Collins offers a lob threat and can operate in pick-and-roll actions with Cade Cunningham. He is expected to get legitimate minutes and contribute in multiple ways, either finishing near the paint or spotting up on the perimeter.
Langdon's idea of using Collins at center highlights the team's search for lineup versatility. With Isaiah Stewart now in Memphis, Jalen Duren is the projected starting center. Paul Reed is penciled in as the primary backup. But Duren's contract situation adds some uncertainty, as he has until October 1 to decide on his qualifying offer.
If Detroit wants to deploy a small-ball lineup with shooters, Collins could slide to the five. He has the size and grit for low-post work, even if it's not his traditional role. This gives head coach Monty Williams different tactical looks to deploy.
The team's playoff run against Cleveland provides important context.
The specific results were a mix of close contests and heavier defeats.
Integrating Collins effectively is part of the broader effort to build on that experience. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page as the new season approaches.
