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Aiming Higher: Which Pistons Players Should Step Up This Year?

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Tyrone Smith | Last updated Sep 27, 2025 5:51 PM ET

The 2025-26 NBA season is right around the corner, and the Detroit Pistons are looking to build on the momentum from last year. After winning 44 games and earning their first playoff victory since 2008, expectations for this team are higher than they’ve been in decades.

With that pressure comes opportunity — and both the front office and fans are hoping to see key players elevate their game even further. Cade Cunningham is now firmly established as the face of the franchise and a rising superstar across the league. The hope is that younger players step up to his level and help push the Pistons toward championship contention.

There’s no shortage of intriguing prospects on this Pistons squad, and if a few of them take the next step, this team could exceed even last season’s success. So, which young players are poised to make the most significant impact in 2025-26? Let’s dive in.

Which Pistons Players Should Step Up As Team Aims Higher?

Ron Holland

After a solid summer showing, Ron Holland enters his sophomore season brimming with confidence. In his rookie campaign, Holland made a name for himself as a tough, no-nonsense player who isn’t afraid to defend aggressively and mix it up on the court.

During the Summer League, Holland focused on developing his offensive game, and the results were encouraging. Over three games, he averaged 21.7 points on an efficient 52.8% shooting from the field, including 46.7% from beyond the arc. While his turnovers (4.0/g) and fouls (4.3/g) were a bit high, his fearless aggressiveness is precisely what both the Pistons’ front office and fans were hoping to see.

If Holland can carry that offensive intensity off the bench during the regular season, he could be the spark the second unit desperately needs. Because free agent Malik Beasley’s return to Motor City is still uncertain, the Pistons need reliable scoring from the bench to continue succeeding.

Jaden Ivey

Much of the offseason skepticism around the Pistons has centered on the return of Jaden Ivey. When he suffered a broken fibula on New Year’s Day, Detroit lost its crucial secondary ball-handler behind Cunningham. To address this, Pistons president Trajan Langdon acquired Dennis Schröder in February, at the trade deadline. Schröder provided exactly what the team needed, averaging 10.8 points over 28 regular-season games and stepping up with 12.5 points per game in the playoffs.

Jan 1, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey (23) grabs his leg as he falls to the court after being injured against the Orlando Magic in the fourth quarter at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

With Schröder now with the Sacramento Kings, many worry about the void left in the secondary playmaking role. That responsibility will fall back on Ivey, who is expected to step into it and thrive. The main question is how effective he will be coming off the injury. Ivey’s diligent rehab and preparation suggest he’s ready to contribute once again.

If he can regain his explosiveness and confidence, he’ll be vital in creating offense both as a scorer and facilitator. His ability to push the pace and attack the basket can energize the Pistons’ second unit, especially as they look to improve their transition game. The team will need him to stay healthy and consistent to avoid the depth issues they faced last season.

Duncan Robinson

When Duncan Robinson signed with the Pistons this offseason, the move sparked mixed reactions. Some viewed him as a solid replacement for Beasley, while others saw it as a step back. Regardless of opinion, Robinson’s skill set addresses a clear need for the Pistons: perimeter shooting and floor spacing.

Last season, the former Miami Heat marksman made 39.3% of his 3s, proving he’s a dangerous catch-and-shoot threat. However, he struggled to get consistent playoff minutes due to defensive weaknesses and matchup issues.

For Detroit, Robinson won’t carry a heavy two-way load, but his shooting is crucial. With the offense attacking the paint, Robinson’s perimeter shooting will help open up space. If he defends well and shoots efficiently, he could be a valuable rotation piece.

The Last Word

The Pistons are no longer a team stuck in rebuild mode — they’re a team on the rise, hungry to prove that last season was just the beginning. With Cunningham leading and young stars stepping up, the Pistons have the foundation for something truly special this season. Add in veteran shooters like Robinson, and this roster has the right mix of youth, grit, and experience.

The expectations are higher than they’ve been in years, but that’s exactly where this team wants to be. It’s no longer about potential — it’s about performance. If healthy and focused, the Pistons can become one of the Eastern Conference’s most exciting and dangerous teams. Detroit basketball is back — and this season, it’s about making noise, not just making progress.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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