Detroit Pistons Surge to NBA's Best Record

The once-struggling franchise enters the post-All-Star break with the league's top record.

Feb. 18, 2026 at 5:31pm

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The Detroit Pistons, a team that had the worst record in franchise history just four years ago, have surged to the NBA's best record as play resumes after the All-Star break. With a 40-13 record, the Pistons are narrowly ahead of the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. This turnaround has been one of the most intriguing storylines of the NBA season, as the Pistons look to continue their strong play and secure a playoff berth for the first time since 2008.

Why it matters

The Pistons' stunning rise from the league's basement to the top of the standings is a remarkable accomplishment, especially given the team's recent struggles. This turnaround has energized the Detroit fanbase and raised expectations for a franchise that has not won a playoff series in over a decade. The Pistons' success also shakes up the NBA landscape, as they emerge as a potential contender alongside more established powers like the Thunder, Celtics, and Nuggets.

The details

The Pistons have been one of the league's most consistent teams this season, posting an 11-2 record after a loss and avoiding any losing streaks longer than two games. They have also excelled against top competition, posting a league-best 17-6 record against teams with a .500 or better record. Led by All-Star guard Cade Cunningham, the Pistons have developed into a well-rounded, hard-nosed team that has proven it can win in a variety of ways.

  • The Pistons had the worst record in franchise history at the All-Star break four years ago.
  • Two years ago, the Pistons' record at the All-Star break was even worse.
  • When the NBA starts post-All-Star play on Thursday, the Pistons will start the night with the best record in the league.

The players

Cade Cunningham

The Pistons' All-Star guard who has been a key leader in the team's turnaround.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Oklahoma City Thunder star who is the reigning NBA scoring champion and is in a tight race with the Lakers' Luka Doncic for this season's title.

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What they’re saying

“We're just going to run our race. We like where we're at, and we're going to continue to try to finish our season strong.”

— Cade Cunningham, Pistons All-Star guard (Audacy)

“It's been hard. It's been a long journey so far, but just going to work every day, finding ways to connect with my teammates, connect with the city the best I can, and bring wins to the city. That's what the city respects and loves is people that go out there and compete every day. There were times they didn't like how we played. We figured it out, and now we have something going, something building. Just have to keep going now.”

— Cade Cunningham, Pistons All-Star guard (Audacy)

What’s next

The Pistons will look to maintain their lead atop the NBA standings as the season enters the home stretch. Their performance over the next two months will determine whether they can secure a coveted playoff berth and potentially make a deep postseason run.

The takeaway

The Pistons' stunning turnaround from one of the league's worst teams to the current NBA leader is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and a relentless commitment to improvement. Their success has reignited the passion of the Detroit fanbase and established the Pistons as a force to be reckoned with in the league's elite.