Pistons Preseason Standouts Include Okorie and Reed

DETROIT, Mich. — Two preseason games in — a home win over Phoenix and a road loss at Washington — have already highlighted a few Pistons.

First-round pick Ebuka Okorie (No. 17) scored seven in the opener, including the winner vs. the Suns, then 14 points on 6-of-15 shooting Saturday against the Wizards.

Paul Reed has reached double figures both nights — 11 points on 4-of-8 with seven rebounds at Washington. Ron Holland II led Detroit with 14 in the opener and added eight on 3-of-7 against the Wizards.

Coach J.B. Bickerstaff said the group is playing freer in exhibitions while keeping its physical identity. The preseason record is even. At Washington, Ausar Thompson and Reed both fouled out after halftime; Detroit racked up 36 fouls that night and 64 across both games.

Minnesota is next on the road as Detroit builds toward 2026-27 after last year’s No. 1 East seed.