New Era for the Bad Boys
A fresh wave of grit and determination has washed over Detroit, as the Pistons embark on a new chapter reminiscent of the legendary ‘Bad Boys’ era. On Tuesday night, they clinched their 11th consecutive victory, outmatching the Atlanta Hawks and elevating their record to an impressive 13–2, the best in the Eastern Conference.
But the true measure of this team’s authenticity lies in its defensive prowess. Defense is the heartbeat of Detroit basketball, and right now, the pulse is strong. With a defensive rating of 110.6, the Pistons sit second in the league, allowing just 110.6 points per game, which ranks fourth. Their shot-blocking ability has also been on full display, averaging 6.1 blocks per game and placing them third in that category.
Echoes of the Past
The legacy of players like Dennis Rodman, Ben Wallace, and Bill Laimbeer continues to resonate through the current roster. Isaiah Stewart, Jalen Duren, and Ausar Thompson are stepping up, embodying the toughness and tenacity that defined their predecessors. They are not merely players; they are torchbearers of a culture steeped in resilience.
Yet, it’s the point guards who have historically steered the Pistons toward success. The likes of Isiah Thomas and Chauncey Billups orchestrated teams that became synonymous with excellence. Now, Cade Cunningham is stepping into that role, bringing his own flair to the court.
Cade Cunningham’s Rise
Cunningham is showcasing his elite skills in a way that draws parallels to the greats who came before him. His performance over the last five games has been nothing short of spectacular. The young guard has averaged:
25 points and 10 assists
46 points and 11 assists
26 points and 11 assists
34 points and 10 assists
31 points and 10 assists
With these numbers, he has joined an exclusive club, becoming the fifth player this century to achieve five consecutive games with 25 or more points and 10 or more assists. He now shares this achievement with prominent names like Russell Westbrook, Trae Young, Luka Dončić, and Nikola Jokić.
Cunningham’s ability to control the game—with the smoothness of a maestro—further cements his role as a pivotal figure in Detroit’s resurgence. As the Pistons continue to stack victories, the city’s basketball culture is alive and thriving once again, signaling that the Bad Boys are back in business.
