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Pistons All-Star Break Grades Show Starters Silencing Critics

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Tyrone Smith | Last updated Feb 13, 2026 8:00 AM ET

Going into the All-Star break, the Detroit Pistons sit alone at the top of the Eastern Conference. At 40–13, this is their best mark at the break since the 2005–06 season — and they didn’t get there quietly. For a franchise that has spent the better part of the last decade searching for its identity, this season certainly feels like a statement.

The Pistons didn’t shoot their way to the top. They imposed their will. They lead the league in steals (10.6), blocks (6.3), and rank second in points in the paint (56.8). In a league obsessed with the three-point line, Detroit has thrived on bully ball, rim pressure, and defense — rediscovering the edge that defines the franchise.

The All-Star break gives us a moment to assess how each Piston has contributed to this rise. Starting with the starting five — how do they grade? Let’s dive in.

Pistons All-Star Break Grades Show Starters Silencing Critics

Pistons All-Star Break: Cunningham in Command

This season, Cade Cunningham has gone from rising star to established superstar. His numbers remain unquestionably elite — 25.3 points, 9.6 assists, and 5.6 rebounds. However, the biggest growth is in his control of the game.

His efficiency has stayed steady (46/33/80), and his turnovers have dropped from 4.4 to 3.7. That blend of production and improved decision-making is why he’s now a two-time All-Star.

Cunningham isn’t just putting up numbers — he’s dictating outcomes. Just what you expect a superstar to do.

Grade: A

Duncan Delivers Spacing

When Duncan Robinson was acquired in the summer, there was skepticism about his fit. However, after a slow start, he’s answered those doubts in a big way.

As the Pistons’ lone consistent floor spacer, Robinson is attempting 7.3 threes per game and knocking them down at a 40.1% clip. Beyond the shooting, he’s added value by attacking closeouts, getting into the paint, and making plays when defenses run him off the line.

He hasn’t just provided spacing — he’s provided stability.

Grade: B

Defensive Disruptor

Feb 11, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Scottie Barnes (4) tries to dribble around Detroit Pistons forward Ausar Thompson (9) during the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Unquestionably, Ausar Thompson has cemented himself as one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders. His 1.9 steals per game rank fourth in the league, and his 94 total steals sit fourth as well.

The advanced metrics back it up: eighth in defensive win shares (2.7), fourth in defensive box plus/minus (3.0), third in defensive rating (105.5), and second in steal percentage (3.5).

The offense is still developing, but Thompson has become a game-wrecker on defense.

Grade: B

The Steady Veteran

There’s no questioning what Tobias Harris brings as the team’s elder statesman. When things get chaotic, he settles the game — whether it’s a timely bucket, a smart read, or simply steady decision-making.

His production has actually ticked up from this point last season, rising from 11.0 to 13.4 points per game. Additionally, his efficiency remains consistent as well (45/35/87 compared to 46/32/87 last year). The real difference has been availability — after playing all 53 games last season, Harris has missed 16 this year.

His impact isn’t always loud, but it’s consistently stabilizing.

Grade: B-

Duren’s Leap Forward

Jalen Duren has gone from an offseason question mark to a foundational piece. Once labeled a rim-runner strictly, he’s expanded his game with polished low-post footwork and the ability to attack off the dribble.

That growth has elevated him into All-Star territory and firmly into max-contract conversations. For anyone questioning whether the Pistons have a reliable second scorer, Duren is certainly making a compelling case.

Grade: A

The Last Word

At the All-Star break, the Detroit Pistons aren’t just sitting atop the Eastern Conference — they’ve built a foundation that looks sustainable. From Cade Cunningham’s control, to Duncan Robinson’s spacing, to Ausar Thompson’s defensive dominance, to Tobias Harris’ steadiness, and Jalen Duren’s emergence, this starting five fits.

Each piece complements the other. Defense fuels offense. Physicality sets the tone. And leadership steadies the group.

If the first half of the season proved anything, it’s this: Detroit isn’t ahead by accident. They’ve undoubtedly earned their place — and they look built to stay there.

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

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