Pistons Open 2025-26 Season Against Bulls Aiming for Playoff Push

The Detroit Pistons open their 2025-26 season Wednesday evening at the United Center in Chicago, facing the Bulls in a matchup that will test whether Detroit can build on a dramatic turnaround that carried the team into last season's playoffs. The Pistons enter the opener with heightened expectations after improving from 14 wins to 44 and a postseason berth in 2024-25, led by first-time All-Star guard Cade Cunningham.

Detroit’s young core remains intact. Cunningham is joined by defensive wing Ausar Thompson and 21-year-old center Jalen Duren, both viewed as pillars of the team's future. Guard Jaden Ivey, who showed promise despite injuries last season, will be sidelined to begin the campaign, the team said, delaying his debut. The Pistons also added perimeter shooting and veteran depth in the offseason, acquiring Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert and signing Javonte Green, moves intended to bolster scoring behind their starters.

Chicago’s roster saw less dramatic change. The Bulls retained playmaker Josh Giddey and made a trade that sent Lonzo Ball to Cleveland in exchange for Isaac Okoro. Chicago will be missing guard Coby White to start the season, a factor that affects the...