The Detroit Pistons have officially announced their starting lineup for the 2026-27 NBA season opener against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, October 20. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff will begin the campaign with Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, John Collins, and Jalen Duren. The team looks to build on a strong preseason that included a 129-125 win over the Toronto Raptors on October 16.
This lineup provides the first official look at the team's revamped roster. Collins, acquired in a sign-and-trade from the Los Angeles Clippers, immediately steps into the power forward spot. He replaces veteran Tobias Harris, bringing a different offensive skill set to the frontcourt. The move aims to add more spacing and athleticism around the core of Cunningham and Duren.
The starting five for the season opener is set. Cade Cunningham will run the point after an All-NBA First Team season. Duncan Robinson gets the nod at shooting guard, providing elite perimeter shooting. Ausar Thompson starts at small forward, with his defense and athleticism being major assets.
John Collins is the new starting power forward. Jalen Duren anchors the center position after signing a long-term deal and earning All-NBA Third Team honors last year. This group is designed to improve offensive versatility without sacrificing the defensive identity that powered a 60-win season.
Collins' arrival gives the Pistons a new dimension. His ability to stretch the floor with outside shooting is significant. It should create more room for Cunningham to operate in the pick-and-roll with Duren.
If Collins draws defenders to the perimeter, driving lanes open up. That spacing also benefits Thompson as he continues to develop his offensive game. Collins offers athletic finishing and rebounding, providing a different look from the experienced scoring of Tobias Harris. The preseason offered glimpses of this fit, including in the 128-106 victory over Minnesota on October 14.
The opener is a tough immediate test. The Celtics will counter with a lineup featuring Derrick White, Jordan Walsh, Paul George, Jayson Tatum, and Mitchell Robinson. Facing a contender like Boston will reveal a lot about Detroit's new combinations.
The Pistons' preseason was a mixed bag, with a 114-108 loss to Washington on October 10 before the recent wins. Integrating Collins and Robinson into the first unit is the primary task. Sharpshooter Isaiah Joe, acquired from Oklahoma City, will provide scoring off the bench.
Success this season hinges on this core group. The Pistons won 60 games last season but fell short in the playoffs. This new starting lineup is Bickerstaff's answer to creating a more potent and versatile attack. Their performance against the Celtics will set an early tone for the year.
