1 seed and 60 regular-season wins, will take a step back in the Eastern Conference. However, as last season showed, the Pistons have shown that when they are doubted, they can prove everyone wrong. Given how talented the Eastern Conference will be during the 2026-27 NBA season, the pundits may be right. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic, who the Pistons faced in the playoffs last season, along with the Miami Heat and Indiana Pacers, will also present challenges for Detroit in the Eastern Conference next season. By the time the deadline rolls around next season, it’ll be interesting to see what position the Pistons fall in an improved Eastern Conference.