Overview
- Detroit did not reach rookie-scale extensions with Jaden Ivey or Jalen Duren before the Oct. 20 deadline, positioning both for restricted free agency with the Pistons holding matching rights.
- Ivey underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee after preseason discomfort and is expected to miss at least four weeks to start the 2025–26 season.
- With Ivey out, the projected starters are Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren and Duncan Robinson, who signed a three-year, $48 million deal in the offseason.
- Coach J. B. Bickerstaff said minutes will be covered by options such as Thompson, Caris LeVert, Marcus Sasser and two-way guard Daniss Jenkins.
- Looking ahead, Ausar Thompson becomes extension-eligible in July as Detroit also prepares for Harris’ upcoming free agency and potential outside interest in Duren.