Biggest Offseason Questions For Eliminated NBA Playoff Teams

BusinessSportsMoneyBiggest Offseason Questions For Eliminated NBA Playoff TeamsByJohn Cassillo,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. L.A.-based lead analyst at The Measure, covering the data behind sports media topics.Follow AuthorMay 18, 2026, 06:32pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.CLEVELAND, OHIO - MAY 15: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons walks off the court after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-94 during the fourth quarter in Game Six of the Second Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Rocket Arena on May 15, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe NBA season is far from over, with conference finals just beginning this week. But for teams that have already been eliminated from the playoffs, the long offseason has already begun. And key questions are lingering around roster construction ahead of June’s draft and the start of free agency.With that in mind, which eliminated playoff teams have the biggest questions to answer this offseason as they watch the Knicks, Cavaliers, Thunder and Spurs compete for spots in the NBA Finals?Detroit Pistons: How Do You Add Offensive Playmakers To Help Cade Cunningham?All regular season, the Pistons’ No. 2 defense (by points allowed per 100 possessions) led the way for the team’s surge all season, but the offense was also plenty capable. Detroit averaged 117.3 points per 100 possessions all season, which was No. 9 overall. Still, the wheels came off in the playoffs, as the team scored less than 100 points four separate times – including the elimination game against the Cavs. Just two players (Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris) averaged more than 15...