Optimism does not translate into wins for Detroit Pistons, for one expert

John Hollinger is a former Memphis Grizzlies executive who now writes for The Athletic. He thinks the future of the Detroit Pistons is bright, but he doesn't think they will make the Play-in tournament this year.

Grant was traded to Portland in a deal with Detroit Pistons. He was Detroit's leading scorer last season and an elite defender. Hollinger thinks the team is not that good on defense even with Grant. Bojan Bogdanovic is a downgrade on the defensive end.  Optimism does not translate into wins for Detroit.

Hollinger likes Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey as rookies but thinks they won't help the team. Hollinger thinks that Daren and Nerlens Noel from the Knicks will help Detroit with rim protection. Cade Cunningham needs a scoring partner like Jayson Tatum has Jaylen Brown on the Boston Celtics.

Detroit Pistons traded two draft picks for Marvin Bagley III and signed him to a three-year, fully guaranteed contract for $37.5 million. Hollinger dislikes the way general manager Troy Weaver deals with players.

Marvin Bagley III was traded for two draft picks and signed a three-year, fully guaranteed contract for $37.5 million.

Hie projects the Pistons finishing with a 28-54 record and coming in 13th in the East. He thinks they will be three spots short of making the Play-in and another trip to the draft lottery. The current line in most betting parlors is an over/under of 28.5 wins.