The Pistons had a banner regular season, that much we know. But, hey man, it’s not about the regular stuff.
Detroit secured its third 60-win season in franchise history with Sunday’s win over Indiana and will now await its first-round opponent as the East’s No. 1 seed.
Still, don’t expect a victory lap.
“It’s a sign of the work that’s been done by everybody who’s a part of this,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said, via Hunter Patterson of The Athletic. “Front office, coaching staff, players, medical staff — everybody that’s touched these guys. … But again, our work’s not done.”
That’s been the tone all season.
Veteran forward Tobias Harris pointed to the group’s ability to stay steady through ups and downs, especially with injuries impacting the rotation early.
“I think we’ve done a great job of handling success this season,” Harris said. “Everybody just stepped up and has been super supportive of the next guy getting ready. … Some amazing stories have come about from our group. So we just embrace all of it.”
There’s also perspective.
Detroit was bounced in the first round last year after finishing with the worst record in franchise history the season before that. Different team now. Different expectations.
“Playoffs, man. We’re excited about it,” Cade Cunningham said. “It’s been a great regular season. Now it’s time for the real fun.
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