According to sources, J.B. Bickerstaff has agreed to a five-year contract to become the head coach of the Detroit Pistons. Bickerstaff emerged as the top candidate among several contenders, earning the position under the new president of basketball operations, Trajan Langdon.

Bickerstaff, who previously led the Cleveland Cavaliers through a successful rebuild, showcased his coaching prowess by winning 99 regular-season games over the past two seasons. He guided the Cavaliers to consecutive appearances in the Eastern Conference playoffs, including a notable run to the conference semifinals this year. However, the Cavaliers decided to part ways with Bickerstaff, subsequently hiring Kenny Atkinson.

This will be the fourth head coaching job for Bickerstaff, who has previously held positions in Houston, Memphis, and most recently, Cleveland. The Detroit Pistons made the coaching change after a disappointing season that saw them finish with the worst record in the league at 14-68. Former coach, Monty Williams, was let go, and general manager Troy Weaver was replaced by the forward-thinking Langdon.

Langdon has demonstrated his proactive approach by making significant hires in both the front office and coaching staff. In recent weeks, Mike Blackstone and Dennis Lindsey were brought on board in the front office. The quick appointment of Bickerstaff is seen as a step towards aligning the team's strategy with his experience in the Cavaliers' successful rebuild.

The Pistons have set their sights on securing a long-term contract for their 2021 No. 1 draft pick, Cade Cunningham, who they hope will be a foundational player for the team's future. Additionally, they plan to utilize their salary cap space to acquire veteran contracts that come with future draft picks.

Bickerstaff's coaching tenure in Cleveland has been commendable, amassing a record of 170-159 (.517) in five seasons. The Cavaliers finished this season as the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference with a 48-34 record, advancing past the Orlando Magic in the playoffs' opening round. Unfortunately, they were defeated by the Boston Celtics in the conference semifinals, with injuries hampering their lineup, including center Jarrett Allen and All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell.

With Bickerstaff now at the helm, the Detroit Pistons are optimistic about the team's future trajectory. His track record in leading successful rebuilds, combined with Langdon's strategic vision, leaves the organization hopeful for a brighter future.