According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Detroit Pistons are set to name J.B. Bickerstaff as their new head coach.
Bickerstaff was released by the Cleveland Cavaliers after the 2023-24 season, where he held a 170-159 regular-season record and went 6-11 in playoff games over four and a half years.
ESPN Sources: The Detroit Pistons are hiring J.B. Bickerstaff as the franchise’s next coach. Bickerstaff comes to the Pistons after consecutive trips to playoffs with Cavaliers —- including the Eastern Conference semifinals. pic.twitter.com/ZlX0CZIH6C
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2024
Under his guidance, the Cavaliers improved their playoff performance each year, moving from the play-in tournament to the Eastern Conference semifinals. However, consistent struggles after the All-Star break contributed to his departure from Cleveland.
In Detroit, Bickerstaff replaces Monty Williams, who was let go after one season, despite still being owed $65 million by the Pistons.
This decision follows a difficult season for Detroit, during which they set an NBA record with 28 consecutive losses.
As reported by Shams Charania, Joe Vardon, and Jason Lloyd of The Athletic, there was a lack of confidence in Bickerstaff from Cavs star Donovan Mitchell and other players. They questioned his strategies, game management, and practice methods throughout the season.
Despite this, Bickerstaff has shown he can lead a team through a rebuild, which will be crucial for the Pistons’ future.
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