Are the Pistons for real?
They were two seasons ago – really, really bad. Historically bad, in fact, in terms of franchise history.
They made a stunning turnaround last season under a new regime headed by president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. They qualified for the playoffs without having to go through the play-in round, then gave the Knicks a tough battle before falling the first round.
During the preseason, the Cavaliers and Knicks were considered the top two teams in the Eastern Conference. Through the first four weeks of the season, the Pistons have a better record than both of those teams, though one of their two defeats came at the hands of the Cavaliers.
The Pistons possess plenty of good young talent with a sprinkling of veterans to help them along. Cade Cunningham reached All-Star status last season and has entered the early conversation for the league’s Most Valuable Player award.
Not only has Cunningham posted big numbers, he’s usually saved his best for last. Cunningham is among the league leaders in fourth-quarter output.
Center Jalen Duren, a restricted free agent next summer, has stepped up his production at both ends of the floor.
Ausar Thompson’s offensive game still needs work but he’s a stat stuffer and defensive stopper who has served as the team’s secondary ballhandler this season. Second-year player Ron Holland remains a steady contributor off the bench. Backup big man Isaiah Stewart is one of the league’s elite rim protectors and interior defenders.
Tobias Harris and offseason additions Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert provide shooting, poise and leadership.
Even the end of the bench guys have played big roles. With the entire starting lineup in street clothes on Wednesday, the Pistons defeated the Bulls behind veteran big man Paul Reed and two-way player Daniss Jenkins. Under-the-radar free agent addition Javonte Green and Jenkins led them to an NBA Cup win over the Sixers on Friday, the team’s ninth consecutive victory.
The Pistons should get Cunningham’s projected backcourt partner – Jaden Ivey – back from a knee injury sometime next month. He’ll provide another element to the team’s offense with his quickness and playmaking.
The Pistons are a middle-of-the-road shooting team but they make up for it by ranking high in many defensive statistical categories, including field-goal percentage, turnovers forced and blocks.
That brings us to today’s topic: What is the Pistons’ ceiling this season? Are they at the level of the Cavaliers and Knicks, who are considered the co-favorites in the Eastern Conference? If not, what type of player should Detroit acquire to reach that level?
Please take to the comments section to weigh in on this topic. We look forward to your input.
the 2 best tms in the east lost their superstars for the season so the conference is wide open this year. its never been easier to W it than now
Good win last night missing their leaders. They are easily top 3 in the weak east.
The Pistons are a legit 2nd round and out team..