The Detroit Pistons clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference after a commanding 116-93 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, ensuring homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs for the first time since the 2006-07 season. This success comes despite the absence of their star player, Cade Cunningham, who is sidelined with a collapsed lung. The team has adapted well, going 7-2 in the nine games without him, with both losses occurring in overtime. All-Star center Jalen Duren has taken on a larger role, averaging 23 points and 11 rebounds since Cunningham's injury. The Pistons' defense has also improved significantly, ranking as the league's third-best during this period. Swingman Ausar Thompson, who leads the NBA in steals, emphasized the team's need to be 'gritty' in Cunningham's absence, while forward Tobias Harris contributed 19 points in the game against the 76ers. The Pistons are optimistic about Cunningham's return for the playoffs, which they believe will enhance their performance even further.