2018-19 NBA Season Preview: Detroit Pistons

Opportunities and Threats

Jackson and Griffin's health will play a big role in Detroit's postseason hopes

Detroit failed to capitalize on the fall of some Eastern Conference playoff teams last year and their window is even narrower this time. The only playoff team that looks to have a drop is Cleveland, but Detroit is the frontrunner for their spot.

Charlotte dumped Dwight Howard because of his salary, even though he had a solid season, Porzingis will be out for most of the Knicks' season, the Nets target next year's free agency and the others are more focused on rebuilding. Even without improving a lot this summer, the Pistons look good enough to make the playoffs in the East and end their poor form in recent years.

What might hurt their chances to do that is their health. In the last two years, Reggie Jackson missed over 40% of Detroit's games due to a variety of injuries he suffered in that span. Blake Griffin's health is an issue too, of course. In three years, Blake hurt his left quad, right ankle and both knees.

If Detroit's key players manage to stay healthy, they are looking good for the playoffs, mostly thanks to their weak conference.