The NBA released its 2016-17 regular-season schedule Thursday. As Detroit Pistons fans peruse their team's schedule, here are the five games they should circle on their calendar:
Oct. 26: Pistons at Toronto Raptors
After returning to the playoffs last season for the first time under Stan Van Gundy, the season opener against the Toronto Raptors marks the beginning of a season of high optimism in Detroit for the team.
Nov. 18: Pistons vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
The target will be on the back of the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers all season, and no more so than when the Pistons take on the team that swept them in the first round last season.
Dec. 16: Pistons at Washington Wizards
It's a brotherly battle in the nation's capitol. Marcus Morris takes on his twin brother Markieff for the first time this season in a matchup of two teams with playoff aspirations.
Dec. 17: Pistons vs. Indiana Pacers
The Pacers look to be better this season after adding Jeff Teague and Thaddeus Young. With the Pistons and Pacers both competing for playoff spots in the east, this is an old rivalry that could be reignited this season.
Dec. 23: Pistons vs. Golden State Warriors
The Pistons got the better of the Warriors in their only visit to the Palace last season. We'll see how they fare against the new-look Warriors with Kevin Durant.