The Pistons Pulse - podcast cover

The Pistons Pulse

The Pistons Pulsewww.freep.com

The Pistons Pulse is your go-to Detroit Pistons podcast for all the best news, analysis, insights and opinions on the team. Hosted by Omari Sankofa of the Detroit Free Press and Bryce Simon of Motor City Hoops. Find it every Tuesday wherever you listen to podcasts. Tune in to listen to engaging conversations and unique perspectives on your Detroit Pistons and NBA. Omari brings insider insights and analysis as a Pistons beat writer and Detroit native combined with Bryce’s in-depth on-court analysis as a former D1 player and current high school coach of 12 years. 

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Episodes

Pistons Pulse mock draft with No Ceilings NBA: Picks 26 - 40

Bryce and Omari are joined by draft experts Stephen Gillaspi and Maxwell Baumbach from No Ceilings NBA for a live mock draft of picks 26 through 40 of this year's draft. The guys explore the potential options for the Pistons' pick at 37 and offer trade-up scenarios, including which surprise team may attempt to move back. You can watch picks 1-25 and the rest of the mock draft on YouTube here. Follow Omari on X/Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on X/Twitt...

Jun 25, 202546 min

Sam Vecenie joins to break down Detroit Pistons' biggest offseason questions

Bryce and Omari welcome back to the pod NBA writer for The Athletic and host of "Game Theory Podcast" Sam Vecenie. After covering general thoughts on the Pistons' recent season, the guys dive into Sam's expertise on the upcoming draft, including which player might be worth trading up for and what that move could cost. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack Pick up "The Pistons ...

Jun 19, 20251 hr 5 min

Who should Detroit Pistons draft with 37th pick?

Bryce and Omari welcome back friend of the pod Laz Jackson to discuss the offseason for the Detroit Pistons. After the break, the trio discuss the potential players/archetypes the team could pursue in the upcoming NBA Draft. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

Jun 12, 20251 hr

Detroit Pistons offseason overview: Free agency, trade candidates, and 2nd round picks

After a brief moment discussing the change in coaching for the New York Knicks, Bryce and Omari continue to explore the numerous roster decisions available for the Detroit Pistons this offseason. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

Jun 04, 20251 hr

Breaking down Detroit Pistons’ off-season options with Keith Smith

Bryce and Omari welcome back friend of the pod Keith Smith for his expertise on the NBA salary cap and free agency. The trio cover the numerous pressing options President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon and the front office will have to make this off-season regarding the roster. Keith walks the guys through what moves are available to the team if they stay under the salary cap and if they go over. The guys also cover one of the most vital off-season decisions for the Pistons regarding th...

May 28, 20251 hr 1 min

Analyzing the lessons Detroit Pistons learned in the playoffs and sharing season superlatives

In a retrospective-focused podcast, Bryce and Omari summarize the largest takeaways from the Pistons’ playoff run and what the future looks like for the young team. The guys cover what’s the next step for Cade Cunningham, rookie Ron Holland’s development this season, and what kind of an impact Jaden Ivey could have made in the playoff series against the New York Knicks. Later, the guys talk listener highlights of the past season, including most standout games and moments. Follow Omari on Twitter...

May 21, 202558 min

Breaking down what we learned about each Detroit Pistons player this season

Bryce and Omari present a bottom to top Detroit Pistons roster deconstruction based on this past season. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

May 15, 20251 hr 7 min

Shawn Windsor joins to help recap Detroit Pistons’ historic season and Trajan Langdon’s end of season press conference

Bryce and Omari welcome back to the show Freep sports columnist Shawn Windsor to help recap the Pistons’ historic season and break down the notable comments made by President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon in his end-of-year news conference. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

May 08, 20251 hr

Detroit Pistons playoff run comes to an end in game 6 loss to New York Knicks

With Omari busy due to his Freep reporting duties, Bryce recorded solo to recap, offer his analysis and answer listener questions live on the game 6 loss. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on Substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

May 02, 202531 min

Resilient Detroit Pistons respond with game five win; Bryce and Omari recap and look ahead to game six against New York Knicks

After the tough game 4 loss, the Detroit Pistons bounced back in game 5 to take the series back to Detroit. The guys break down the game including, the differences made by Ausar Thompson and Cade Cunningham’s effectiveness. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

May 01, 202534 min

Detroit Pistons dealt hometown heartbreaker in game 4, can they bounce back?

Bryce and Omari recap the Detroit Pistons’ game 4 matchup against the New York Knicks. While the costly missed foul call was the biggest talking point following the loss, the guys make sure the other noteworthy moments of the game are not overshadowed, such as Cade’s triple double performance. The guys also break down the Pistons’ sluggish start to the game, Ausar Thompson’s usage in this series, and if coach J.B. Bickerstaff needs to make serious adjustments for the team heading into game 5. Fo...

Apr 28, 202554 min

Bryce breaks down Detroit Pistons' game 3 loss to New York Knicks

Following the Detroit Pistons' 118-116 loss to the New York Knicks, Bryce went live to recap game 3, share his analysis, and answer listener questions. Bryce and producer Wes had originally hoped Omari would be able to join halfway through the live recap but O2's beat reporting duties kept him away from this quick pod. The guys will be back with a full pod next week recapping game 4 and more. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: ...

Apr 25, 202531 min

Detroit Pistons playoff deep dive with Shawn Windsor and Knicks Film School

Bryce and Omari have a wealth of material to cover with the Detroit Pistons vs. New York Knicks series now tied 1-1. With the longest active playoff win drought now in the history books, the guys bring on Freep sports columnist Shawn Windsor to help break down the Detroit perspective. After the break, Omari and Bryce welcome to the pod Andrew Claudio aka GMAC of “ Knicks Film School ” to talk everything Knicks, including lack of adjustments, the Knick’s usage of Karl-Athony Townes, and of course...

Apr 23, 20251 hr 15 min

Previewing Detroit Pistons vs. New York Knicks matchup with The Athletics’ James L. Edwards III

Pistons playoff basketball is finally here! To help break down the teams’ upcoming series, Bryce and Omari bring on former Pistons beat reporter and current Knicks reporter James L. Edwards III. The guys start off with James’ thoughts on the Pistons successful turnaround season before getting into weeds, including comparing the different styles of the teams and player matchups. After the break, Bryce and Omari continue to analyze what went right for the Pistons this year and close out the show w...

Apr 16, 202559 min

Detroit Pistons enter their final stretch chasing the Milwaukee Bucks: What’s their biggest weakness going into the playoffs?

As the Detroit Pistons enter into their final games of the regular season, Bryce and Omari preview their remaining matchups. In researching the last 10 years of conference finalists teams, Bryce pulls data that shows how the Pistons still need a more confirmed No. 2 type of player to complement Cade Cunningham. Can Ausar Thompson or Jaden Ivey fill that role? The guys also talk the team’s struggles against good rebounding opponents, Marcus Sasser’s role, and if the Pistons need to rush Tobias Ha...

Apr 09, 20251 hr 2 min

Breaking down Detroit Pistons’ Timberwolves brawl and playoff push with Laz Jackson

Producer note: This podcast was recorded before the NBA's suspension decision. You can find Omari's latest reporting here: NBA suspends 3 Detroit Pistons after fight vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Bryce and Omari welcome back friend of the pod Laz Jackson. The trio break down the team’s altercation with the Minnesota Timberwolves and potential fallout. Afterwards, the guys continue the playoff conversation and player evaluations. The trio cover the differences between the Thompson twins, Dennis Schr...

Apr 01, 20251 hr 6 min

Nate Duncan joins to talk Detroit Pistons' turnaround

Bryce and Omari welcome back Nate Duncan of the “ Dunc'd On Basketball NBA Podcast" to the show. The discussion around the team has drastically changed since the guys first talked to Nate back in November and the trio start the show by analyzing the team's potential playoff standing. The guys also get Nate's thoughts on Cade making the All-NBA Team, the Pistons' top 10 defensive rating, Malik Beasley's three-point shooting prowess, and more. Later in the pod, Bryce and Omari look at what the off...

Mar 27, 20251 hr 1 min

Breaking down Detroit Pistons’ loss to OKC and sizing up the team’s playoff potential

Bryce and Omari recap Cade’s ejection and coach J.B. Bickerstaff’s fiery response to the officiating in the Detroit Pistons’ loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The guys also cover the team’s win over the New Orleans Pelicans and loss to the Washington Wizards. Later, Bryce and Omari continue the playoff conversation and analyze where the team could land in the postseason and what matchups could fit the team. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Br...

Mar 19, 20251 hr 2 min

Who has exceeded expectations the most for Detroit Pistons?

After conducting a poll that included fans and other content creators, Bryce and Omari break down the data to rank which players have surpassed preseason predictions and projections the most. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

Mar 13, 20251 hr 5 min

Detroit Pistons continue to surge forward

Bryce and Omari cover a Detroit Pistons team that continues to keep on rolling. The guys take a deep dive into the key factors that allow this team to maintain their improved pace beyond Cade Cunningham. Bryce and Omari talk Jalen Duren’s defensive contributions and what impact players like Ausar Thompson and Isaiah Stewart are making on the offense. The guys also check in on rookie Ron Holland and look forward to potential post-season matchups. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the la...

Mar 05, 202558 min

Breaking down Detroit Pistons’ resiliency and swagger with Shawn Windsor

Free Press columnist Shawn Windsor joins Bryce and Omari this week to discuss the red-hot 7-game win streak Detroit Pistons. The trio recap the team’s impressive win over the LA Clippers and break down Cade and Ausar’s elevated level of play. Shawn also shares his Pistons’ hot take and the guys analyze the impact Dennis Schröder has been having on the court. Later, Bryce and Omari break down the team’s tough upcoming schedule and what the post-season could like for the Detroit Pistons. Follow Om...

Feb 26, 202558 min

Post NBA All-Star listener mailbag: Could Detroit Pistons win 40 games?

Bryce and Omari answer and analyze your questions in this mailbag episode. What kind of record will the team finish with at the end of the season? What’s an ideal playoff matchup for the team? What should we make of the Pistons’ progression on offense and will it continue to develop? How will the team contend with their cap space in the offseason and is there room to add to the team? Will Bryce forsake his professional and familial duties by taking over his son’s PS5? The guys tackle these quest...

Feb 19, 20251 hr 2 min

Detroit Pistons continue to impress heading into NBA All-Star break

For the first time since 2009, the Detroit Pistons head into the All-Star break with a winning record. Bryce and Omari analyze what’s elevating the team far beyond expectations for this year. The guys talk what’s clicking for Cade Cunningham and note the positive trends for Ausar Thompson and Jalen Duren. The guys also break down the strong impact the vets are making on the court. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHo...

Feb 14, 20251 hr 7 min

Detroit Pistons acquire Dennis Schröder: What to know

Ahead of Thursday's trade deadline, the Detroit Pistons acquired Dennis Schröder , Lindy Waters III and two future second-round picks. Bryce and Omari break down what these moves mean and what approach president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon is taking for the team. Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

Feb 07, 202535 min

Detroit Pistons trade deadline primer

Bryce and Omari break down the NBA trade landscape heading into Thursday's deadline and examine what options are available to the Detroit Pistons. Is the team likely to make a move given their cap space? Follow Omari on Twitter: @omarisankofa Read the latest from Omari on freep.com Follow Bryce on Twitter: @MotorCityHoops Read the latest from Bryce on substack Pick up "The Pistons Pulse" merch here!...

Feb 05, 202534 min

Laz Jackson helps break down Detroit Pistons’ need for a 2nd creator

Bryce and Omari welcome back friend of the pod Laz Jackson to the show. The guys get Laz's overall impression of a Pistons team that’s exceeded beyond expectations for this year. Overall good vibes aren’t enough for this team to seriously compete in the future though, as the trio discusses the Pistons’ need for another primary ball handler. Their conversation ranges from Ausar Thompson’s reps, trade possibilities and what we could learn about the team in a playoff appearance. Follow Omari on Twi...

Jan 28, 20251 hr 8 min

What gaps do Detroit Pistons need to fill?

This podcast was recorded 1/19/25 After taking a quick moment to recap the Detroit Lions’ playoff loss, Bryce and Omari begin analyzing the weaknesses of the Pistons by debating who's the second best player on the roster. After the break, the guys offer additional player reviews, including thoughts on Ausar Thompson and Marcus Sasser. To close out the pod, Bryce wrangles with the livestream chat on if this upcoming trade deadline is the right time for a big front office move. Follow Omari on Twi...

Jan 22, 20251 hr 2 min

Talkin' the good vibes around Detroit Pistons with Shawn Windsor

Bryce and Omari welcome back Free Press sports columnist Shawn Windsor to discuss what's working well for the Detroit Pistons following their win against the New York Knicks. The guys talk Cade's second strong showing at Madison Square Garden this season and the identity the team is now forming. Shawn also shares his thoughts on Ron Holland and how well the team could contend in the future if the rookie continues to develop. After the break, Omari and Bryce continue the conversation around appro...

Jan 16, 20251 hr 2 min

Breaking down the buzz around Detroit Pistons’ .500 record

With their win over the Portland Trail Blazers Monday night, the Detroit Pistons elevated their record to 18-18. Recorded the following afternoon, Bryce and Omari talk the good vibes and excitement the team is earning. The guys break down what’s clicking for the team and filling Jaden Ivey’s spot on the roster. After the break, the guys have a long overdue conversation on Paul Reed’s fiery off the bench play. To close out the pod, Wes joins to play a game of “True or False” with a twist. Follow ...

Jan 08, 20251 hr 8 min

What does Jaden Ivey’s injury mean for Detroit Pistons?

After a quick recap of their time together in Denver, Bryce and Omari get right to business covering the leg injury Jaden Ivey suffered in the 4th quarter against the Orlando Magic Wednesday night. At the time of recording the morning after on 1/2/25, the full extent of Ivey’s injury was not yet known and the guys react in real time to Ivey’s injury report towards the end of the pod. Operating with the mindset that Ivey’s injury would be severe enough to miss an extended amount of time this seas...

Jan 03, 20251 hr 5 min
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