[2] Before the start of the 1965–66 season, the Pistons lost their leading scorer, Terry Dischinger, due to military service, and starting center, Reggie Harding, due to suspension.
On September 28, 1965, general manager Don Wattrick died of a heart attack.
[3] The team's first round pick in the 1965 NBA draft, Bill Buntin did not sign until October due to a contract dispute.
[4] The Pistons struggled on the season, finishing 22-58 (.275), 5th in the Western Division and with the worst record in the NBA.
Rookie guard Tom Van Arsdale (10.5 ppg, NBA First-Team All-Rookie) added to the cause.