Dead last in the Eastern Conference, subscribers to defeat for five good seasons now, the Pistons are struggling to become respectable again. General manager Troy Weaver addressed all Detroit fans in an open letter discussing the reconstruction and the reasons for hope for the future.
Many historic franchises have been there. The famous reconstruction process after the departure of key players. In Detroit, this project is starting to take a lot of delay. Since 2019 and the last qualification for the Playoffs under the leadership of a great Blake Griffin, Motor City no longer vibrates.
On a terrible series of 21 defeats in the last 22 meetings played this season, the Pistons will finish last in the Eastern Conference (overall record of 16 wins – 63 losses). They were also penultimate last season. In this slump, GM Troy Weaver (who arrived in June 2020) spoke to fans of the franchise by evoking the reasons for this failure, but also the future:
“When I made the decision to join the Detroit Pistons in June 2020, I was fully aware of what this organization meant to the city, its fans and everyone who wears red, white and blue. I know the history, I know the lore, and I know the urgency with which our fans want to win and see us move up the NBA hierarchy. Our goal is the same as yours and, from the first to the last member of the organization, we are committed to carrying out this restoration process for you.”
The GM went on to talk about the injury to Cade Cunningham (number 1 in the 2021 Draft) which cost the Pistons dearly:
“Rebuilding a team doesn’t always follow a linear path, and we experienced that this year with Cade Cunningham’s injury, which forced him to miss most of the season. If this injury has had an impact on the continuity of our team, it has also been an opportunity for others to develop.
A ready-made transition towards grounds for hope and the plan to rebuild the franchise:
“Our players have fully understood the value of hard work and the importance of giving it your all every night. We are in a great position to improve our team in the offseason. We positioned ourselves to get another high draft pick. We also have a favorable salary cap situation and will continue to talk with teams and assess trade opportunities as they arise.”
He concludes by emphasizing the intact loyalty of the fans:
“Make no mistake about it: we are all disappointed with our results this season, but we are convinced that we are on the right track to succeed. We appreciate your patience, trust and loyal support as we continue this journey together.
You deserve the opportunity to once again celebrate this team as one of the best in the NBA, and a pillar of this city and its culture. We are partners to build greatness together.”
A letter that seems sincere and that can give hope to a franchise that licks the bottom of the glass with 16 small victories this season. Perfectly positioned for the next Draft, the Pistons – in case of luck in the lottery – could welcome in their ranks Victor Wembanyama. He would join another Frenchman, Killian Hayes, who will also have to do better next season after a promising but perfectible campaign. A French connection to Motor City does that heat you up?
Troy Weaver penned a letter to the fanbase this morning.
“Our focus is aligned with yours – and from the top down – we are committed to delivering on this restoration process for you.” https://t.co/Trt1KN9c81
— Omari Sankofa II (@omarisankofa) April 4, 2023