Detroit Pistons: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

The Detroit Pistons ' history in the 21st century has been a rollercoaster. From winning an NBA championship to enduring tough rebuilding years, there’s always been one player who defined the team each season. Whether it was the grit of Ben Wallace or the potential of Cade Cunningham, these players shaped the Pistons' identity. Let's take a look at the best player from every season and how they left their mark on the franchise.

2000-01 Season - Jerry Stackhouse

Stats: 29.8 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star

Jerry Stackhouse was the clear leader for the Pistons in 2000-01, averaging an impressive 29.8 points per game, which was second in the NBA. He also contributed 5.1 assists and was a big part of the offense, doing everything he could to keep the team competitive. Stackhouse’s massive scoring output earned him an All-Star selection that season. Despite his best efforts, the Pistons struggled with a 32-50 record, but Stackhouse’s performances were a bright spot in a tough season.

With Joe Dumars beginning to rebuild the roster, Stackhouse’s offensive firepower was one of the few highlights as the team navigated through a period of transition.

2001-02 Season - Jerry Stackhouse

Stats: 21.4 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

In 2001-02, Jerry Stackhouse continued to lead the Pistons, though his scoring dipped to 21.4 points per game as the team shifted to a more balanced approach. He remained a key playmaker with 5.3 assists per game, but his role changed as the Pistons focused more on defense and team play. While Stackhouse didn’t make the All-Star team this year, his leadership was crucial as the Pistons finished with a 50-32 record and secured a playoff spot.

This season was a big step forward for the team as Ben Wallace emerged as a defensive force, and the Pistons began to take shape as a playoff contender. Stackhouse’s contributions were still vital, but the team started to move towards a more well-rounded style of play.

2002-03 Season - Ben Wallace

Stats: 6.9 PPG, 15.4 RPG, 1.6 APG, 1.4 SPG, 3.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: Defensive Player of the Year, All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, All-Defensive First Team

Ben Wallace was the heart of the Pistons in 2002-03, dominating the defensive end and averaging a staggering 15.4 rebounds and 3.2 blocks per game. He earned his second Defensive Player of the Year award and was the team's defensive anchor as they finished with a 50-32 record. Wallace's hustle and leadership earned him his second All-Star selection, and he was also named to the All-NBA Second Team and the All-Defensive First Team.

The Pistons leaned heavily on Wallace’s elite defense, which helped them secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference. His shot-blocking and rebounding made life tough for opposing teams, and this season set the tone for the Pistons’ upcoming years of success.

2003-04 Season - Ben Wallace

Stats: 9.5 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.8 SPG, 3.0 BPG

Achievements and Awards: NBA Champion, All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, All-Defensive First Team

The 2003-04 season saw Ben Wallace anchor the Pistons to an NBA Championship. Wallace averaged 9.5 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game while continuing to be the most feared defender in the league. Though he didn’t win Defensive Player of the Year, Wallace was still the backbone of the Pistons defense, earning All-NBA Second Team and All-Defensive First Team honors, as well as another All-Star appearance.

Wallace’s defensive brilliance shone brightest in the Finals, where the Pistons stunned the heavily favored Los Angeles Lakers to win the title. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and leadership were crucial in the Pistons' run to the championship, cementing Wallace’s legacy as one of the best defenders in NBA history.

2004-05 Season - Ben Wallace

Stats: 9.7 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 2.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: Defensive Player of the Year, All-Star, All-NBA Third Team, All-Defensive First Team

Ben Wallace continued his defensive dominance in the 2004-05 season, averaging 9.7 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. His stellar play earned him his third Defensive Player of the Year award, cementing his place as one of the greatest defenders in NBA history. Wallace was also selected to the All-Star Game and named to both the All-NBA Third Team and All-Defensive First Team.

The Pistons finished with a 54-28 record and made it to the NBA Finals for the second consecutive year, but they fell short in a seven-game battle against the San Antonio Spurs. Wallace's defense was a key factor in keeping the Pistons competitive throughout the playoffs, proving once again that he was the backbone of the team's success.

2005-06 Season - Ben Wallace

Stats: 7.3 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.8 SPG, 2.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: Defensive Player of the Year, All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, All-Defensive First Team

In the 2005-06 season, Ben Wallace earned his fourth and final Defensive Player of the Year award, tying the record for most DPOY awards in NBA history. He continued to anchor the Pistons' defense, averaging 7.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, and an impressive 1.8 steals per game. Wallace’s all-around defensive ability earned him another All-Star nod, along with All-NBA Second Team and All-Defensive First Team honors.

The Pistons finished the season with a league-best 64-18 record and looked poised for another deep playoff run. However, they were eliminated in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Miami Heat. This season marked the end of Wallace's first stint with the Pistons, as he signed with the Chicago Bulls in the offseason, but he left Detroit as a four-time DPOY and the cornerstone of their defensive identity.

2006-07 Season - Chauncey Billups

Stats: 17.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

Chauncey Billups led the Pistons in 2006-07 with his steady playmaking and clutch shooting, averaging 17.0 points and 7.2 assists per game. Billups’ ability to run the offense, control the tempo, and hit big shots earned him yet another All-Star appearance, and he was named to the All-NBA Third Team. The Pistons finished with a strong 53-29 record, continuing to be a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference. Billups’ leadership, especially in close games, was a major factor in the Pistons' success that season.

The Pistons made another deep playoff run, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the fifth straight year. Billups’ poise and veteran presence were key, but the Pistons couldn’t get past LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, falling in six games. While the season ended in disappointment, Billups remained the heart and soul of the team, continuing to be a reliable leader on both ends of the floor.

2007-08 Season - Richard Hamilton

Stats: 17.3 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star

Richard Hamilton took over as the Pistons’ leading scorer in 2007-08, putting up 17.3 points per game with his signature mid-range jumpers and off-the-ball movement. His ability to stay active and find open shots made him one of the most consistent offensive threats in the league, earning him another All-Star selection. The Pistons finished with an impressive 59-23 record, showcasing their depth and defensive prowess, with Rip being the focal point on offense.

Hamilton's strong play helped the Pistons once again reach the Eastern Conference Finals. However, despite his scoring and leadership, the Pistons couldn’t get past the Boston Celtics, who were on their way to winning the title. This season marked the end of The Pistons' dominance in the East, but Hamilton’s consistent performances made him a fan favorite and a key player during the team’s final run of the era.

2008-09 Season - Richard Hamilton

Stats: 18.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

The 2008-09 season was a tough one for the Pistons, and Richard Hamilton was one of the few bright spots. He led the team in scoring with 18.3 points per game while also dishing out 4.4 assists. The Pistons finished with a 39-43 record, barely making the playoffs, where they were swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was the end of an era for the Pistons, as this season marked a turning point from their successful run earlier in the decade.

Hamilton’s consistent scoring and leadership kept the Pistons competitive, but it was clear the team was no longer the powerhouse it once was. The addition of Allen Iverson in a mid-season trade didn’t help matters, as chemistry issues plagued the team. Despite the struggles, Rip remained one of the most reliable offensive threats on the roster.

2009-10 Season - Richard Hamilton

Stats: 18.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

In the 2009-10 season, Richard Hamilton once again led the Pistons in scoring with 18.1 points per game, though it was another tough year for the team. The Pistons finished with a 27-55 record, well out of playoff contention. Injuries and inconsistency hampered the Pistons all season long, and the team struggled to find its identity during the rebuild.

Hamilton’s production was steady, but it was clear the team was in the midst of a transition. With long-time players like Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince still on the roster, the Pistons faced challenges as they tried to navigate the post-Billups era and rebuild for the future.

2010-11 Season - Tayshaun Prince

Stats: 14.1 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Tayshaun Prince was the Pistons' leader during the 2010-11 season, averaging 14.1 points per game and contributing 4.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists. While the team struggled to a 30-52 record, finishing well out of the playoff picture, Prince was the most reliable presence for Detroit. He was the team’s veteran leader, providing stability on both ends of the court while younger players like Greg Monroe and Rodney Stuckey were still finding their way.

Despite the team’s tough season, Prince’s consistency and leadership were essential in keeping the Pistons competitive in a rebuilding phase. This season also saw him continue his role as the team’s defensive anchor, even if the results didn’t reflect the success of the Pistons' earlier years.

2011-12 Season - Greg Monroe

Stats: 15.4 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Greg Monroe stepped up in the 2011-12 season, emerging as the team’s leading scorer and rebounder. He averaged 15.4 points and 9.7 rebounds per game, solidifying himself as the Pistons' go-to big man. Monroe’s ability to score in the post and clean up on the boards made him a focal point of the Pistons' offense as they tried to rebuild. Though the Pistons finished with a 25-41 record, Monroe's individual performance was one of the few bright spots.

As the franchise navigated through another difficult season, Monroe’s development was key in giving the Pistons hope for the future. His size and skill set showed that he could be a foundational piece as the Pistons continued to look for ways to climb back into playoff contention.

Related: Chicago Bulls: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

2012-13 Season - Greg Monroe

Stats: 16.0 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Greg Monroe was the Pistons’ standout player in the 2012-13 season, leading the team with 16.0 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. His post presence and ability to score in the paint made him Detroit's most reliable option offensively. The team, however, finished with a 29-53 record, missing the playoffs once again. Monroe's steady performance showed promise, but the Pistons struggled to find any rhythm as they navigated through their rebuilding phase.

Despite the team’s disappointing record, Monroe was a bright spot, continuing to develop into a solid all-around big man. His ability to rebound, score, and even pass (with 3.5 assists per game) provided hope that the Pistons could build around him as they looked to climb back into contention.

2013-14 Season - Andre Drummond

Stats: 13.5 PPG, 13.2 RPG, 0.5 APG, 1.4 BPG, 1.2 SPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Andre Drummond emerged as a force in the 2013-14 season, averaging 13.5 points and an impressive 13.2 rebounds per game. His dominance on the boards and shot-blocking ability made him the defensive anchor for the Pistons. Drummond’s athleticism and presence in the paint were key for a team still struggling to find its way, as they finished with a 29-53 record, once again missing the playoffs.

Drummond's development was crucial for the Pistons future. His ability to control the glass and protect the rim gave the Pistons a cornerstone to build around as they continued to retool the roster. While the wins weren’t coming, Drummond’s breakout season was a sign of better days ahead for the franchise.

2014-15 Season - Andre Drummond

Stats: 13.8 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 0.4 APG, 1.9 BPG, 0.9 SPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Andre Drummond continued to dominate the paint for the Pistons in the 2014-15 season, averaging a strong 13.8 points and 13.5 rebounds per game. He was a force on the boards and an intimidating shot-blocker, but despite Drummond's efforts, the Pistons finished the season with a 32-50 record, missing the playoffs. Drummond’s rebounding prowess made him one of the league’s top big men, even as the team struggled to find success.

Although the Pistons season was tough, Drummond’s growth as a defensive and rebounding specialist provided a bright spot. He became the centerpiece for the team's future rebuild and was a consistent presence down low, further establishing himself as one of the NBA’s premier rebounders.

2015-16 Season - Andre Drummond

Stats: 16.2 PPG, 14.8 RPG, 0.8 APG, 1.5 BPG, 1.5 SPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

In 2015-16, Andre Drummond took his game to another level, earning his first All-Star selection and averaging 16.2 points and a league-best 14.8 rebounds per game. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court helped the Pistons secure a playoff spot with a 44-38 record, making it their first postseason appearance since 2009. Drummond’s improved offensive game, along with his rebounding and shot-blocking, made him an anchor for the Pistons, and he earned All-NBA Third Team honors for his efforts.

Though the Cavaliers swept the Pistons in the first round of the playoffs, Drummond’s emergence as a top center in the league was a huge positive for the Pistons, solidifying his place as the face of the franchise moving forward.

2016-17 Season - Andre Drummond

Stats: 13.6 PPG, 13.8 RPG, 1.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Andre Drummond continued to be a dominant presence on the boards in the 2016-17 season, averaging 13.6 points and 13.8 rebounds per game. His rebounding was once again among the best in the league, but the Pistons struggled overall, finishing with a 37-45 record and missing the playoffs. Drummond's defense and rebounding were solid, but his offensive limitations and free-throw struggles became more noticeable as the Pistons looked for consistency.

Drummond’s individual performance was still impressive, especially on defense and in rebounding, but the Pistons were unable to translate that into wins. It became clear that the team needed more pieces around him to become a true contender. Despite the challenges, Drummond remained one of the best rebounders in the league.

2017-18 Season - Andre Drummond

Stats: 15.0 PPG, 16.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.6 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star

In 2017-18, Andre Drummond had a bounce-back year, averaging 15.0 points and a league-leading 16.0 rebounds per game. His improved free-throw shooting and playmaking ability (3.0 assists per game) helped him earn his second All-Star selection. Drummond's impact on the defensive end was evident, as he averaged 1.5 steals and 1.6 blocks per game, cementing his status as one of the league’s top centers.

Despite Drummond’s individual success, the Pistons missed the playoffs with a 39-43 record. However, his improvement at the free-throw line and increased playmaking showed that Drummond was evolving into more than just a rebounding machine, giving the Pistons hope for future success.

2018-19 Season - Blake Griffin

Stats: 24.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

Blake Griffin had a monster season in 2018-19, leading the Pistons back to the playoffs for the first time since 2016. He averaged 24.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, showing off his all-around game and even extending his range to the three-point line. Griffin earned an All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Third Team, proving that he could still be a star even after several injury-plagued years. The Pistons finished the season with a 41-41 record but ran into the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the playoffs, where they were swept.

Even though the playoff run was short, Blake’s performance throughout the season was a highlight. He reinvented his game to adapt to a more perimeter-based league, and his leadership was crucial in getting the Pistons back to postseason play. Unfortunately, a knee injury limited him in the playoffs, but his 2018-19 campaign was one of his best as a Piston.

2019-20 Season - Derrick Rose

Stats: 18.1 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 5.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Derrick Rose took center stage for the Pistons in the 2019-20 season, leading the team in scoring with 18.1 points per game and adding 5.6 assists. Although past his MVP prime, Rose showed flashes of brilliance, becoming a key offensive weapon for a Pistons team that was struggling to compete. The Pistons ended the season with a 20-46 record, missing the playoffs, but Rose’s playmaking and scoring were bright spots during a tough season.

Rose's ability to score efficiently, especially in crunch time, was impressive, but the Pistons were clearly in rebuild mode. His veteran presence and skill on the court gave fans something to cheer for, even in a season filled with challenges.

2020-21 Season - Jerami Grant

Stats: 22.3 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Jerami Grant had a breakout year in his first season with the Pistons, taking on the role of the team's primary scorer. He averaged 22.3 points per game, significantly boosting his offensive production after playing more of a supporting role in previous seasons. Grant’s ability to create his own shot, attack the basket, and knock down threes made him Detroit's go-to guy. Despite his efforts, the Pistons finished with a 20-52 record, showing that the team was still very much in rebuilding mode.

Grant’s rise to becoming the Pistons’ number one option was a bright spot for the franchise. He showed he could be a reliable scorer, though the Pistons' struggles were evident across the roster. His performance earned him recognition, even though the team’s results were far from ideal. Grant’s ability to carry the offense was promising for the future, as the Pistons continued their rebuilding process.

2021-22 Season - Cade Cunningham

Stats: 17.4 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements and Awards: NBA All-Rookie First Team

Cade Cunningham made an immediate impact in his rookie season, quickly establishing himself as the future of the Pistons. The first overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Cunningham averaged 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, showing his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas. His leadership on the court helped the Pistons finish with a 23-59 record, a slight improvement over the previous year, but still far from playoff contention.

Cunningham’s ability to score, facilitate, and play defense gave the Pistons hope that they had found their cornerstone for the future. Despite some ups and downs throughout the season, his potential was undeniable, and he earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His rookie campaign set the stage for what Detroit hoped would be the beginning of their return to relevance.

2022-23 Season - Bojan Bogdanovic

Stats: 21.6 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

In the 2022-23 season, Bojan Bogdanovic was the Pistons' leading scorer, averaging 21.6 points per game. His shooting and scoring ability were vital for a team that struggled throughout the year, finishing with a 17-65 record, the worst in the NBA. Bogdanovic’s consistent offensive output provided a veteran presence on a young roster still in the rebuilding phase.

While the Pistons season was disappointing, Bogdanovic’s performance was a bright spot, as his experience and scoring touch helped keep the team competitive in tough matchups. However, his efforts weren’t enough to lift the Pistons out of their slump.

2023-24 Season - Cade Cunningham

Stats: 22.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 7.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Cade Cunningham bounced back in the 2023-24 season after missing most of the previous year due to injury, leading the Pistons with 22.7 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. He showed growth in his playmaking and scoring ability, establishing himself as the focal point of the Pistons' offense. Despite Cunningham’s stellar individual performance, Detroit finished with a 14-68 record, continuing their struggles.

Cunningham's ability to lead the offense, make plays, and score efficiently was a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for the Pistons. His development gives hope that the Pistons have a young star to build around as they continue their rebuild, even though the team as a whole struggled to translate his performance into wins.