Tom Gores is now the front-runner to purchase the Pistons and the sale of the team could be completed as early as next week, according to sources.

The Pistons would reportedly like to have an agreement in place with a new owner to present to the NBA board of governors Feb. 18-21 in Los Angeles.

Gores declined to comment on the developments while attending Detroit's game in Los Angeles on Tuesday night.

Mike Ilitch announced his interest in buying the Pistons in August, but his family's exclusive bargaining agreement to purchase the team expired without a deal seven weeks ago.