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Detroit Pistons win lottery, receive No. 1 pick in 2021 NBA Draft

Pistons finished with second-worst record in NBA

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 17: Saddiq Bey #41 of the Detroit Pistons chest bumps Jerami Grant #9 after Grant's three-pointer in the final moments of the game against the Toronto Raptors at Little Caesars Arena on March 17, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) (Nic Antaya, 2021 Nic Antaya)

DETROIT – The Detroit Pistons finally lucked out in the NBA lottery, receiving the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft.

This year, the Pistons finished with the second-worst record in the league, so they were in a three-way tie for the best odds to win the top selection

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In 14 previous lottery appearances, the Pistons had never gotten lucky and moved up from where they finished in the standings. They’ve gotten worse picks than they should have six times.

Under new general manager Troy Weaver, who completely overhauled the roster and turned two of three first-round picks into All-Rookie honorees, the Pistons tanked correctly this season. They were competitive on a nightly basis, and their young players showed promise across the board.

But they still lost 52 of 72 games and put themselves in position to get a top pick. Cade Cunningham is an elite prospect and potential No. 1 overall choice, while Jalen Green, Evan Mobley and Jalen Suggs aren’t far behind.


About the Author
Derick Hutchinson headshot

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.

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