As the Detroit Pistons continue reshaping their identity, franchise legend Rick Mahorn is watching the progress with a measured eye.
Speaking to Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, Mahorn acknowledged the strides made under the new leadership, but quickly separated this version of the team from the championship pedigree of past eras.
“It seems that they have a togetherness about them,” Mahorn said, citing the influence of veteran acquisitions Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Tim Hardaway Jr., alongside young talents Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland.
He credited Detroit’s new general manager Trajan Langdon and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff for building the foundation for a more unified group.
“Trajan did a great job… to hire a guy like J.B. Bickerstaff,” Mahorn said. “His record has shown. Nobody gives him that type of credit from Houston and when he took over Cleveland.”
While acknowledging the growth, Mahorn was direct when asked if this squad resembled the iconic “Bad Boys” or the 2004 title-winning group.
“I mean… you can’t,” Mahorn said. “You’re talking two champions. Until you get a ‘chip, I can’t compare it.”
The “Bad Boys” era — defined by its physical defense and relentless attitude — remains one of the most recognizable periods in franchise history, with Mahorn playing a pivotal role in back-to-back titles in 1989 and 1990.
He also referenced the defensive benchmarks set by Dennis Rodman, John Salley, and Ben Wallace when comparing current defensive efforts.
“Now their defense is getting better… but we’re talkin’ Ben Wallace, Rodman, Salley. That’s a different level,” Mahorn noted.
Still, the veteran big man sees encouraging signs from rising star Cade Cunningham.
“Cade Cunningham — the way he’s playing, helping guys understand how to get involved — that’s one thing you can compare,” Mahorn added.
Mahorn emphasized Cunningham’s growth as a floor general under Bickerstaff’s leadership.
“He’s the right hand of J.B. Bickerstaff,” Mahorn said. “He has the familiarness of being with Duren, also with Ivey, knowing their sweet spots.”
Even as injuries slow Cunningham and Jaden Ivey, Mahorn praised the team’s resilience and sacrifice.
When reflecting on the Bad Boys’ place in NBA history, Mahorn downplayed the lack of attention they receive compared to marquee franchises.
“Nah, it doesn’t bother me,” he said. “The Lakers and Celtics always get the spotlight… but all I know is I got hardware in my house and I know I’m a champion.”
Mahorn remains realistic about Detroit’s current rebuild but recognizes the culture shift underway.
While this Pistons squad still has ground to cover before joining the franchise’s historic ranks, Mahorn believes the pieces are beginning to align under new leadership.
