Is the Pistons' early-season success sustainable?

The Detroit Pistons’ hot start is the feel-good story of the 2025-26 NBA season. The Pistons are 13-2, and currently on an 11-game winning streak. That's great, but is this hot streak a flash in the pan, or a harbinger of good things to come? Here are four compelling reasons why the Pistons’ early success should continue for at least the rest of this season.

They are dominating on defense

According to NBA.com, the Pistons' defensive rating (109.6) is the best in the Eastern Conference, and second in the league to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Their opponents are scoring 112.1 points per game, third best in the league. Playing great defense consistently separates elite NBA teams from the rest of the pack. Good offense is fleeting, but good defense shows up every night. That means the Pistons will likely have a fighting chance to win most games.

Their bench is deep

A strong second unit makes the Pistons at least 10 players deep. Veterans Caris LeVert, Paul Reed, Javonte Green and 2024 first-round pick Ron Holland II have been solid on both ends of the court. Due to injuries, two-way player Daniss Jenkins has assumed an increased role and has flourished, averaging 20.2 points and 7.6 assists in his last five games. With a deep bench, especially one that defends, leads are maintained and deficits are erased, making comebacks or late-game stands the norm.

Their young core is improving

The Pistons' emerging stars, Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson are showing notable year-over-year improvement in most statistical categories: