News Pistons Team Notes

[Detroit Pistons]

3-Man Fastbreak: Full(er) strength

The Detroit Pistons have matched a franchise record with thirteen straight victories, tying the 2003–04 and 1989–90 teams — both of whom… well, you know what happened.

What started as a fun early-season story has now become something bigger. For this fanbase, it’s felt like the beginning of something special — a young group blossoming together and playing the hard-nosed, connected basketball that fans in this city have long associated with winning.

There will be plenty of questions to sort out as the trade deadline approaches, but for now, Detroit is enjoying the ride.

1. Welcome to the party, Mr. Ivey​

For Jaden Ivey, the last year could not have been easy. After the best stretch of his young career, he was forced to watch from the sidelines for eleven months as the Pistons evolved into the contender they’ve become. Now, fully healthy, the question becomes whether he can be the ceiling-raiser Detroit needs to reach its ultimate goals.

The Pistons were understandably cautious about bringing the fourth-year guard back after arthroscopic knee surgery, given how well the team played in his absence. But with Ivey finally at full strength, we can begin to see the real picture — both of his individual potential and the chemistry he can build with Cade Cunningham.

In his first two games back, facing the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers, Ivey has looked calm, patient, and deliberate. He’s letting the game come to him while still flashing the explosive traits that make him such a weapon. In just 27 minutes of action, he’s put up 22 points on 56% shooting from the field.

2. Sorting out minutes​

With most injured players now returning, the next big question becomes: what does the everyday rotation look like moving forward?

After just two games with Ivey and Tobias Harris back, it’s still too early to draw firm conclusions. But the minutes have shifted — and not subtly. Dennis Jenkins, Paul Reed, and Ron Holland II have all seen their playing time shrink substantially, which is unfortunate for them individually but an undeniable luxury for the team. Having high-energy, rotation-caliber players waiting in reserve is something good teams enjoy and great teams depend on.

Ivey’s minutes are being eased upward, but it feels inevitable that he’ll rejoin the starting lineup soon. That move would create a more diverse, dynamic bench unit — with Duncan Robinson/Caris LeVert providing spacing and Holland/Stewart anchoring the defense. And with the constant churn of matchups and injuries in an 82-game season, expect JB Bickerstaff to continue mixing and matching on a nightly basis.

3. What are the weak points thus far?​

Detroit’s defensive profile is no fluke. They rank near the top of the league in multiple categories, including being the only team in the top five in both steals and blocks. They currently sit fourth in defensive efficiency. Everything about the way they defend appears sustainable — built on culture and relentless physicality.

Offensively, the clearest weak spot is shooting. The Pistons don’t take many threes — they’re 26th in attempts — but it hasn’t halted their momentum. They compensate by shooting a high overall percentage (6th in the NBA) and by dominating the paint, where they lead the league in scoring.

Another area they rank near the top (or bottom?) in is fouls per game, where they commit the fifth most in the league. So it feels like even the teams’ weak points still plays into their identity, which shows their commitment to playing a certain style. And that style can be dangerous in the playoffs.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detroit-pistons-analysis/48396/3-man-fastbreak-fuller-strength

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Celtics Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

The Detroit Pistons are vying for history today as they face the Boston Celtics. A win today gives the Pistons the longest winning streak in team history at 14 games. It is also an NBA Cup game, for those who care for such things. The Pistons are 2-0 in Cup games, same record as the 2-0 Orlando Magic, though Detroit has the edge in point differential.

The Pistons will be facing a Celtics team with a size deficit at the center position that the Pistons will need to exploit. Starter Neemias Queeta is expected to miss the game, meaning Boston will be relying on a mix of former Piston Luka Garza, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman. One plus for the Celtics is they are starting to figure out how to be successful in a world without Jayson Tatum. They have won four of their past five games and the offense is starting to jell.

Game Vitals​

When: 5 p.m. ET
Where: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts
Watch: ESPN
Odds: Pistons -2.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (15-2)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Boston Celtics (9-8)​

Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jordan Walsh, Chris Boucher

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...celtics-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Submit your questions for The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast

Send in your questions now for this week’s episode of The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast to discuss everything Pistons free agency. Submit your question to the comments section here or on X/Twitter to @TheRealWesD3 and/or @blakesilverman.

Join us live on Saturday afternoon for the show where we’ll discuss the Pistons’ week of games. What are your main takeaways following the NBA Cup group stage? What has stood out most over the first quarter of the season? How has Jaden Ivey looked in his return and will Jalen Duren receive an All-Star nod this season?

Plus, The Pindown has a phone line where you can leave a message and hear your voice on the show. Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message around 45 seconds or less so we can fit everyone into the show.

The podcast will be uploaded to all audio platforms the following morning.

The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast Vitals:​

When: Saturday November 29 at 12 p.m. ET

Where: Detroit Bad Boys YouTube Channel

How to submit questions:

• Detroit Bad Boys Website: Comment section of the weekly Pindown episode articles.
• Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message to 45 seconds or less.
• Twitter: @detroitbadboys, @blakesilverman or @therealwesd3
• YouTube: Chat section of The Pindown live recording — Subscribe here

As always, leave any questions or topics you want to be discussed in the comment section below.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...ons-for-the-pindown-a-detroit-pistons-podcast

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Celtics preview: Franchise-record winning streak on the line

If I told you the Pistons would be one win away from their franchise record winning streak before the season started, you would think I was crazy. However, that is the reality of the 2025-2026 Detroit Pistons, far and away the story of the season.

The Pistons have won 13 games in a row, which they have done three times in their franchise history, with two of those times ending in them hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

The Pistons also have the added incentive of this being a qualifying game for the NBA Cup, which they have a chance to win their group by winning tonight and beating the Orlando Magic on Friday. Both of these things can also incentivize the Boston Celtics in the same ways, as they can play spoiler for the NBA Cup group and end the longest winning streak in the NBA.

The Celtics are not their usual selves this season as they go through a bit of a transition to set themselves up when Jayson Tatum returns, but they still have talented players and play hard and have every possible motivation they could want in this game.

Game Vitals​

Where: TD Garden in Boston, MA
When: Wednesday, November 26 at 5 pm EST
Watch: ESPN
Odds: Pistons (-2.5)

Analysis​

The last time these two teams faced off was for the Pistons Home Opener, a hard-fought game where the Pistons came out on top after having to inch their way back in the game after a slow start. The early-season trend for the Pistons was very slow starts resulting in having to play perfect basketball over the final three quarters in order to win.

Now, that is no longer the case as the Pistons have been dominant during their 13-game winning streak. They have had some close calls like an overtime win against the Washington Wizards and Monday’s game against the Indiana Pacers, but even the best teams are going to have off nights. Say what you want about the Pistons early-season schedule, but they are beating the teams they are supposed to beat, which is the recipe for a good team.

That opening night victory by the Pistons moved the Celtics to 0-3 on the season, but they are 9-5 since that game and enter this contest with a 9-8 record. I would say it is right around where people expected the Celtics to be after trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis and losing Jayson Tatum to a torn Achilles in the playoffs.

The Celtics are led by Jaylen Brown, who has managed to step up as their go-to scorer in the absence of Tatum, but more importantly, still maintain pretty solid efficiency, as he is shooting 51% from the field and 34% from beyond the arc.

Derrick White has taken on additional offensive responsibilities as well, but has struggled a bit to keep up his level of efficiency that made him such an invaluable role player during their Championship season. He is still a very good defender and will likely draw the Cade Cunningham assignment along with the slew of defensive-focused wings the Celtics have to throw at him like Hugo Gonzalez and Josh Minott. That crew was basically full court pressing Cade the whole game on opening night and it took a while for him to get going as a result.

Like a lot of teams in the Eastern Conference right now, the Celtics are actually on a bit of a hot streak as they have won four of their last five games with their only loss being a shocking NBA Cup loss to the Brooklyn Nets last week. They obviously are not as hot as the Pistons, but they have definitely found their stride a bit so this is not the same team the Pistons faced during the Home Opener.

The Celtics are likely without starting center Neemias Queta, which means this could be a favorable matchup for Jalen Duren going up against the slender Chris Boucher and the slow footed Luka Garza. He will have to watch for both players on the perimeter though.

The Pistons have opted for a 12 man rotation the last couple of games and while it worked against the Bucks on Saturday, on Monday against the Pacers, the Pistons narrowly avoided a shocking loss after the Pacers overcame a 20-point deficit in the 2nd half. There was a lot of tough shot-making by the Pacers down the stretch, but I can’t help but wonder if trying to force minutes for 12 guys affects their ability to get momentum going.

There are advantages to using 12 players in regular season games against a short-handed Milwaukee team or the struggling Pacers, as it allows you to give some rest to your most important players during a long season. However, in a meaningful game like this one against a pretty good Celtics team, the Pistons may need to look to shorten their rotation. It might be a little tough given that Jaden Ivey is on a minutes restriction, but the Pistons should be using Daniss Jenkins to cover those minutes and only Jenkins.

Jenkins only played 8 minutes against the Pacers despite being his usual efficient self. It just goes to show how difficult it is to balance minutes and give minutes to the right players while playing a 12-man rotation.

JB Bickerstaff has given no indication that he will be cutting back the rotation, so I would expect more of the same, but if the Pistons are in a similar position as they were against the Pacers on Monday, the current version of the Celtics is much better equipped to take advantage of it and steal a win.

Let’s hope the Pistons come out engaged and ready to show why they are on a 13 game winning streak. A win this evening will put the 2025-2026 Detroit Pistons all alone on the franchise-record winning streak list. It will also setup a showdown with the Orlando Magic to win East Group B in the NBA Cup.

Lineups​

Boston Celtics (9-8): Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jordan Walsh, Chris Boucher

Detroit Pistons (15-2): Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Question of the Day​

Do you care about the NBA Cup or is it more of a novelty idea by the NBA that has no affect on your viewing experience?

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...w-franchise-record-winning-streak-on-the-line

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Magic preview: Detroit looks to advance in NBA Cup

The Detroit Pistons are finally good enough where I am forced to understand the rules of the NBA Emirates Cup. In previous years, Detroit has lost cup games and been out of “contention” early in the process. Tonight, they play the Orlando Magic, and the winner takes East Group B. Can you feel the excitement?

The Pistons will be looking to rebound after a hard-fought but unsuccessful attempt to keep their 13-game winning streak going against the Boston Celtics. In a largely back-and-forth game, Detroit fell 117-114. The Pistons had a chance to tie it when Cade Cunningham went to the line for three free throws, and Detroit was down three, but one fell short.

If the Pistons beat the Magic, both teams will be 3-1 in cup play, and Detroit will move on thanks to the advantage in point differential. If they advance, they go to the knockout stage. What is the knockout stage? It is an eight-team tournament consisting of each group winner and a wildcard team from each conference. The quarterfinals of the knockout round are considered regular-season games, with the team having the better record hosting. The semifinals and finals will be played in Las Vegas, with the semifinals also counting as a regular-season game, but the championship cup game will not count toward standings or stats.

It’s all terribly complicated isn’t it?

Game Vitals​

When: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -3.5

Analysis​

After scuffling early in the season, the Magic have won 10 of its past 14 games, and have a better net rating than the Pistons in that span. The good news for the Pistons is that Orlando did not become a great team by becoming prolific from behind the arc. After getting torched by the Celtics from deep, that efels like welcome relief.

Instead, they do things the same way Detroit does, behind a bruising and energetic defense. The also bring that bruising mentality to the offensive side of the floor. Tonight’s game features the first and second ranked team in free-throw attempts per game over the last 14 games. For the season, both teams also rank top 5 in points in the paint, top 10 in fastbreak points, and in defensive rebounding.

This is going to be a rock fight and both teams are going to be looking to do a lot of damage with ball movement and creating cracks in the defense that allow them to get to the rim. Few teams shoot more in the restricted area than the Magic and the Pistons.

The injury report continues to look good for the Pistons, which is amazing after missing so many players for so much of the early season. Jaden Ivey might sit as part of his conditioning as he ramps up into everyday game shape, and Bobi Klintman and Marcus Sasser remain out. The Magic will be without Paolo Banchero who is dealing with a groin strain.

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (15-3)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Orlando Magic (11-8)​

Jalen Suggs, Desmond Bane, Franz Wagner, Tristan da Silva, Wendell Carter

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...c-preview-detroit-looks-to-advance-in-nba-cup

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Magic Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

Intellectually, I understand that the Detroit Pistons are not a solid 3-point shooting team. But when you see a good 3-point shooting team, it becomes all the more real. The Boston Celtics ended Detroit’s 13-game winning streak with 3-pointers. Detroit scored 33 points off of threes and the Celtics scored 60 points off threes. The margin of victory was … three.

Being able to shoot threes is just an incredible boost to your margin of error. The Pistons won all those games because their defense made up for their lack of shooting. That is never a guarantee, though, and tonight they face, while not a great 3-point shooting team in the Orlando Magic, they do face a good 3-point shooter in Desmond Bane. And you can add in Tristan Da Silva and Wendell Carter Jr. as guys who can get hot from deep. It worries me.

Game Vitals​

When: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -3.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (15-3)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Orlando Magic (11-8)​

Jalen Suggs, Desmond Bane, Franz Wagner, Tristan da Silva, Wendell Carter

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...s-magic-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Heat preview: Detroit faces another Eastern Conference opponent

After a drawn-out late-game comeback attempt, the Detroit Pistons will be in another rock fight vs the Miami Heat.

After cruising to 13 straight wins, Detroit has dropped two in a row to quality Eastern Conference teams. Orlando and Boston do it in different ways, and so do the Heat.

A lot has been made about the rotation. We’re in game 20 of 82 with new faces joining the fold. No coach is perfect, but JB Bickerstaff deserves some time to figure this thing out.

Game vitals​

When: 8:00 p.m. ET

Where: Kiseya Center, Miami, Florida

How: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit

Odds: Pistons +3.5

Analysis​

The last two Ls have come at the end. Detroit hasn’t been blitzed; they’ve been in striking distance. Another close game could be on the horizon.

Miami and Detroit have traded game winners over the last few years. Bam Adebayo drilled a top-of-the-key 3 to send Pistons fans home in disarray in 2024, and Cade Cunningham got redemption, nailing a 25-foot bomb over Adebayo on national TV last season.

These teams play each other close, and now they’re two of the best teams in the conference, like 2005 all over again. The Pistons are on top of the East, and Miami slots in at the three seed. The Heat are winners of 6 in a row, sporting the 13th-ranked offense and No. 2 defense, hence another rock fight could be on the way tonight.

The defensive portion of the Heat’s makeup stays intact, but their approach on the offensive end has been drastically different. After years of spamming pick-and-rolls and dribble-hand-offs, Miami has shifted to a free-flowing isolation and space-based offense.

Miami runs on-ball screens fewer than anyone in the league. And it’s not by a little bit; they’ve practically scribbled out those playtypes. The goal of this offense is to spread out defenses and attack whenever possible. These aren’t the James Harden isolations; they’re created through ball movement and quick decision-making.

Tyler Herro and Norman Powell lead the dance for Miami. The two haven’t played a bunch together as Herro made his season debut earlier this week. Jamie Jaquez Jr. (groin; questionable) is the lead driver on the spaced-out Heat. His resurgence is encouraging because it was gloomy for him last year.

With his slump overall and all the bodies in the lineup, Ron Hollad hasn’t had a very fun last few weeks as a scorer. If Jaden Ivey is out because this is a back-to-back, it would be encouraging to see Holland string together a solid offensive performance. He always brings needed activity and aggression defensively.

I didn’t love Jalen Duren’s usage against the Magic. The last time he took fewer than 10 shots was against that same Magic team. This trend shouldn’t continue in Miami. Kel’el Ware should see plenty of run against Duren. While Ware has dominated the glass, Duren should still be able to go through his chest, scoring buckets and drawing fouls.

Due to the new rotation patterns, we’ve seen fewer Daniss Jenkins and fewer Stew plus Duren minutes. Those young bigs together were one of the driving forces of the streak. They’re figuring things out, but JBB stumbled upon something that worked in Tobias Harris’ absence. It would be a shame if that were discontinued.

Jenkins is on a two-way deal and isn’t the priority Holland or Ivey is. I understand that, but I can’t say I don’t miss Jenkins’ risky passing and constant energy on the floor. Hopefully, 8 minutes a game isn’t his reality.

The star of the whole thing has game up short in the clutch. That’s unlike Cade and nothing to worry about. If this Heat game turns into another game of who has the last-second heroics, I fully expect Cade to answer the phone. This is a good team to get back on track against.

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (15-4)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Miami Heat (13-6)​

Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, Andrew Wiggins, Bam Adebayo

Question of the day​

It’s Duncan Robinson’s homecoming in Miami. What Pistons player had the best homecoming game?

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...oit-faces-another-eastern-conference-opponent

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Heat final score: Clutch Cade basket shuts door on Miami comeback effort

The game went from a big-time blowout to a spectacular collapse to a gritty win for the Detroit Pistons. You can thank Cade Cunningham for every phase of the wild 138-135 win over the Miami Heat in Miami. We can start with the gritty win part.

Cade Cunningham took the game into his own hands with 34 seconds left and the Heat within three. Cunningham methodically dribbled himself into prime position in the lane for a smooth five-foot pull-up jumper. It effectively iced the game for the Pistons.

Of course, the Pistons didn’t need to make the game that close. For 3.25 quarters, they were absolutely dominant. They scored 76 points in the paint, had 29 assists, and shot 59% from the field. There were accolades to spread around. Cunningham scored 29 points on the night and had eight assists. Tobias Harris scored 26 points on 10-of-12 from the field. Duncan Robinson scored 18 points in his return to Miami. Paul Reed had a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double in 19 minutes. Ron Holland and Daniss Jenkins did the grimey things you love to see.

The Pistons were up 22 points with just over 8 minutes to play in the game, and then the whole thing nearly came crumbling down. Again, you had to look at Cade Cunningham. Heavy is the head, etc.

To be fair, the Pistons did squander eight points of that 22-point lead in the 3-plus minutes Cunningham sat in the fourth quarter. But when your star comes out for the final stretch, and you are nursing a 14-point lead, you expect to close things out easily. It wasn’t the case.

From the 3:40 mark to the 55-second mark, Cunningham committed three turnovers and a 3-point shooting foul on Norm Powell. That took a 14-point lead and whittled it to two.

Cunningham struggled as the Heat told whoever was guarding Ausar Thompson to ignore him and hound Cade as early as possible. Cunningham also too easily and willingly dribbled himself into trouble. It was mind-boggling and frustrating on a night that had so much promise for a Pistons team that had dropped two winnable games in a row.

Luckily for the Pistons, Cunningham decided to own the final minute of play. Not only that game-sealing middie, but on the possession prior, he handled the blitz easily and rifled the ball to Jenkins in the middle of the lane. Jenkins did not hesitate and finished a tough layup over a defender (and perhaps through contact).

Jenkins also split a pair of free throws to give the Pistons a five-point lead with 12.9 seconds left, and then sank two more to make sure the Heat were always trying to overcome a two-possession deficit.

When you lose the free-throw battle 33-17, I guess you’re always going to feel like you’re in a dog fight, but it is truly hard to describe how much the Pistons just freely gifted Miami this game late.

But it ended up a win. An ugly win. A gritty win. A win that ended a brief two-game losing streak. A win against a team in the Eastern Conference that looks to be a top-four team. They will have another one of those battles on Monday when they host the Atlanta Hawks. Let’s hope for a similar effot in the first three quarters, and much less drama in the fourth quarter.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...de-basket-shuts-door-on-miami-comeback-effort

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Heat Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

The Detroit Pistons are looking to prevent a three-game losing streak as they face off against the Miami Heat. After winning 13 straight games, the Pistons have dropped two consecutive contests, against the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic, respectively. The cause has been consistent in both games — real struggles when Cade Cunningham is on the bench. The Pistons are juggling with two deficits here — the first is a lack of a bona fide self-creator and scorer other than Cade, and the other is trying to integrate healthy players back into the lineup while not disrupting the flow of a team that was in its groove.

On the first, Jalen Duren has been a reliable threat but has cooled off some, and on the second, it is simply hard to plug Jaden Ivey, Tobias Harris, Ausar Thompson and Caris LeVert back into the lineup and not miss a beat. This is particularly true of Ivey. The Pistons want the ball in his hands, and they also know that him on the floor after missing nearly a year is not going to be a bang-on success out of the gate. That means those minutes might be a bit rough now with an eye toward how it can pay off later. That’s easy enough to say, but it becomes harder when bench lineups struggle, the team can’t find minutes for Daniss Jenkins, and close wins are suddenly becoming close losses.

It doesn’t get any easier tonight against the Heat. Miami has won six games in a row and has the second-best defense in the NBA. Detroit is going to have to earn everything on the offensive end tonight, and on defense, they will need to have answers for Tyler Herro and Norm Powell, who have powered Miami’s win streak. To make it even more difficult, Jalen Duren has been ruled out for tonight’s game with a left leg injury. That means Detroit is down one of its best weapons early in the season. But an optimist, I suppose, would say it at least creates steady minutes for Paul Reed, and that is almost always a good thing.

Game Vitals​

When: 8 p.m. ET
Where: Kiseya Center, Miami, Florida
How: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons +4.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (15-4)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Isaiah Stewart

Miami Heat (13-6)​

Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, Andrew Wiggins, Bam Adebayo

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...vs-heat-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

The Pindown: NBA Cup Let Down

After a 13-game win streak, the Pistons dropped two straight. Unfortunately, those two games were Cup games, ruining the Pistons dreams of playing for the NBA Cup in Las Vegas. Wes and Blake get together prior to the game vs. the Heat to break down why the Celtics were just a bad matchup and nothing more, and why that Orlando loss stings just a bit more. They discuss why the team needs Jalen Duren to be more aggressive and why Duncan Robinson is so vital offensively. The guys also break down the early returns from Jaden Ivey, why we need to make sure to be patient with him as he gets his sea legs back under him. And finally, they dive into the 12-man rotation: what are the benefits, what do the guys need to do to make it work, and when it may be time to pull the plug.

We’ve got you covered for all this and more in this week’s episode!

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Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detroit-pistons-podcasts/48452/the-pindown-nba-cup-let-down

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Hawks preview: Pistons look to slow down high-flying Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks have figured something out. Jalen Johnson’s ascension and the arrival of Kristaps Porzingis makes it all the easier, but the team has started to cement a play style and identity that fits their talent and maximizes their effectiveness. Even without star and noted Pistons killer Trae Young in the lineup, Atlanta’s offense has been deadly.

Detroit will need to use the imposing, physical nature of its defense to slow Atlanta down and hope that sticking them in a deliberate half-court setting exposes some flaws in a high-powered offense. Otherwise, this could be a long night for the Pistons.

Game Vitals​

When: 7 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -9.5

Analysis​

This is largely a matchup of like on like. Everything the Pistons like to do, the Hawks like to do, with a few notable differences. Atlanta’s season really began after Trae Young went down on Oct. 29. Since then, the Hawks have fielded one of the most efficient offensive attacks in the NBA, and that has largely to do with their desire to get out and run.

Atlanta is second in the league in fastbreak points and third in points off turnovers since Young went down. They also share the ball prodigiously. Atlanta has five players who play serious minutes with an assist percentage above 15, and five rotation guys who have an assist-to-turnover ratio better than 2.25.

Sharing the ball when you have a man advantage is easier, and there is no question in my mind the Hawks’ game plan is simple — pressure the ball, force turnovers, get out and run, don’t let Detroit guard in a half-court setting.

Making things a bit more difficult in theory is that the Hawks are playing in the second half of a back-to-back, and last night’s game was a 142-134 dogfight on the road in Philadelphia. The Hawks prevailed behind Johnson’s career-high 41 points and a great game from one-time Pistons free agent target Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who scored 34.

The Pistons need to protect the ball and own the glass. The Hawks don’t really care about offensive rebounds — their bigs space the floor, and their wings run back at the earliest opportunity — and Detroit needs to make them pay for that neglect.

Detroit, wings included, must crash the glass and get easier putbacks and get points on the board.

Cade Cunningham must dictate the tempo of the game, enforce his will on offense, and, most importantly, not get loose with the ball. Dyson Daniels will likely get the assignment to guard Cade, and he loves to poke the ball away and generate turnovers.

If Jaden Ivey doesn’t seem up to the task of being a primary ball handler and safety valve alongside Cunningham tonight, I’d love to see JB Bickerstaff move early to get Daniss Jenkins on the floor for some serious minutes, and a big chunk of those minutes playing with Cunningham.

While there is a log jam at guard, it might be a bit cleared up tonight, for better and worse, as Duncan Robinson is likely to miss the game with an ankle issue. Caris LeVert should be back, but I still want Jenkins on the floor for his impact on both ends.

Projected Lineup​

Detroit Pistons (16-4)​

Cade Cunningham, Caris LeVert, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Atlanta Hawks (13-8)​

Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Zachary Risacher, Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu

Questions of the Game​

Which teams would you consider the top four teams in the Eastern Conference?

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...w-pistons-look-to-slow-down-high-flying-hawks

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Hawks final score: Detroit grinds out another tough one

There were a few notes I had in mind pre-game. 1. How would the Detroit Pistons defend Atlanta Hawks star forward Jalen Johnson? He just erupted for 41 points in his last outing. It is always interesting to see how Detroit goes about slowing down stars. 2. How much would the 3-point disparity burn Detroit? Only the Rockets and Kings shoot 3s less than Detroit. 3. How much would Duren be used? He’s a tone setter. An involved Duren is a different Detroit team.

Neither team came out blazing in the 1st quarter; both squads failed to reach 30. Plays like Cade Cunningham’s emphatic block that led to an Isaiah Stewart eurostep defined the period. It was cool to see those two switch roles momentarily. Onyeka Okongwu hit a few 3s, but the Hawks man of the hour, Jalen Johnson, was contained through one.

Ausar Thompson ripped him clean early and set the tone for how the game would go. How the first half would go at least. The Pistons were ready to muddy this one up. Jalen Duren got physical in the first. He drew two fouls and delivered a mean crossover on the way to an And-1 off an offensive rebound.

Daniss Jenkins started this game and made an imprint in the second quarter. His shot was a bit off, but Jenkins’ rapid pace sped the game up, and he continuously found Duren in traffic. That Ron Holland and Jenkins combo off the bench is a load to deal with for second-stringers. You can’t put your hands on your knees with Holland on the floor; he was springing all over the Hawks for putback opportunities.

Caris LeVert continues to hit bailout shots. The Hawks got on a 6-0 run in the 2nd, and LeVert steps up and drains a big one to put Detroit up 1. LeVert can be erratic, but that fire cannon mentality will be needed in spots when Detroit needs a bucket. He’s the type of player who can win a game in the playoffs, capitalizing off Cade drawing 2 to the ball.

Stew ran the floor and deflected shots at the rim like a madman before the break. His finishing at the rim stood out as he went 3-3 from 2-point range in the 1st half. Detroit dominated the glass, outrebounding Atlanta 37-20. Atlanta shot a smidge better from three, but only had seven turnovers to Detroit’s 13.

It was clear that the blitz Cade button was pressed at halftime for the Hawks. They swarmed the Pistons’ ball handler, and the team as a whole flipped possession after possession at the top of the third. It hadn’t cost Detroit because of their crippling defense on the other end. They got stops and were off to the races in transition.

The third quarter was a seesaw tit for tat affair. Jalen Johnson got going. He had an early dunk followed by a middy jumper, and he was ready to cook. The turnovers remained a thing for Detroit, but some of these were at least attempts to get a teammate involved, which can be worth it. Duren remained a presence in the paint, and Cade was letting the game come to him. He wasn’t pressing the issue, which led to a more distributive-driven Cade in this period.

Detroit’s defense to offense led the charge as they edged out the Hawks in the third. Cade got his hands on balls in transition in 1-on-1 situations multiple times. His effort and Holland’s sensational circus shot closed the 3rd, and Detroit led 74-68 headed into the fourth. That’s not a regular score you see in 2025.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker did his thing to help the Hawks. He tried wth 26 points and six 3s. He had some nice drives that opened up layup lines for teammates. His spurt in the middle of the fourth quarter flipped this game on its head. He was the catalyst of a 14-4 run capped off by a Dyson Daniels floater in the lane.

Jenkins had some key plays to keep the game in reach. A missed foul call on Cade that led to a Johnson 3 on the other end felt like the game was slipping away. With Detroit trailing by 3, Duren slips and slides his way to another three-point opportunity. And-1. The game is knotted at 89 late into the 4th.

If you blinked, you missed the 13-0 run Detroit went on. This was a heavyweight battle with counter punching and on the chin accuracy. Atlanta wouldn’t go down without a fight. NAW and Johnson hit 3s to bring the Hawks back in it. The Pistons’ lack of shooting didn’t cost them tonight, but it could’ve (5/26 from 3, Hawks 14/40)

With Detroit up 2, Cade corkscrewed around Hawks defenders, charging to the cup for a filthy reverse lefty layup. That was the closing touch on another clutch moment from the Clutch Player of the Year. We had to get the late game free throw theatrics out of the way before Detroit grinded out a gritty 99-98 win.

The Pistons move to 17-4 and have run up two in a row. Cade or Duren didn’t even need a standout performance to secure this one. Great team win overall that was led by this defense we all love. Game ball goes to Ron Holland. Good work.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...al-score-detroit-grinds-out-another-tough-one

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Hawks Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

Duncan Robinson is out for the Detroit Pistons tonight, and with him goes Detroit’s most reliable 3-point threat. Jalen Duren and Caris LeVert are available against the Atlanta Hawks, and that should at least create a few more outlets and variety of scoring punch behind Cade Cunningham.

The Hawks are on a bit of a role, armed with some good to great individual defenders and an efficient and blistering offensive attack that relies on pressure and pace. The Hawks will be without starter Kristaps Porzingis, but Onyeka Okongwu is more than capable starting in his place. They are also without Obi Toppin and Trae Young, whose timetable is still a ways away.

Game Vitals​

When: 7 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -9.5

Projected Lineup​

Detroit Pistons (16-4)​

Cade Cunningham, Daniss Jenkins, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Atlanta Hawks (13-8)​

Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Zachary Risacher, Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...s-hawks-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

If Giannis Antetokounmpo is available of course Pistons should be interested

The dam might be officially breaking on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s relationship with the Milwaukee Bucks. Giannis, it appears, wants out of a middling Milwaukee franchise with a less-than-middling future.

ESPN puts it far more diplomatically than that, of course. It reports that Giannis and his agent “are having convesations with the Milwaukee Bucks about the two-time NBA MVP’s future — and discussing whether his best fit is staying or a move elsewhere, sources told ESPN on Wednesday.”

When is a trade demand not a trade demand? When you’re simply having conversations and asking questions.

The NBA trade deadline is Feb. 5.

Yes, the Detroit Pistons should be interested and should be on the phone with Milwaukee brass, gauging what a deal could look like. Of course, so should every other contending NBA team. That includes franchises like the Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, Atlanta Hawks, LA Lakers, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

There would be an enormous cost to obtain the forward, who is days away from his 31st birthday. Both in dollars and in other treasure. Antetokounmpo will be eligible for a four-year $275 million extension next season. He will get that extension from whoever trades for him.

The assets required to get him would be nearly everything in the cupboard.

The is a strong contingent of NBA analysts and fans who want the Pistons to make a consolidation trade. They are very deep with very young, still flawed players who are nowhere near their potential. They also have big salary that isn’t incredibly burdensome. They are also a very good basketball team who still need that second star next to Cade Cunningham.

Cade, to make it plain, would be the only player off the table in any Giannis deal.

Ron Holland and Jaden Ivey would surely be gone. Do you love Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson? Pick one because at least one of them is going as well. Like the veteran presence of Tobias Harris? Too bad, the salaries need to match. Don’t even think about having future draft picks. They would all go to Milwaukee.

Would that be enough to beat any offer the Thunder, who own the unprotected Los Angeles Clippers pick in the upcoming draft? Would it be enough to beat an offer the Atlanta Hawks could make, who own the New Orleans Pelicans’ unprotected pick?

I don’t want to get too caught up in building an actual, hypothetical trade because it is pretty much sending everything, absorbing as much bad salary as you can (which isn’t much since you have to account for Giannis’ $54 million salary), and try and have some shooting left and one other young star as the trio.

So, in my mind, you keep Duncan Robinson if the math allows. You are taking on either Myles Turner, Kyle Kuzma or Bobby Portis to help clean up Milwaukee’s books, and you are choosing One Other Player That Matters.

Is it Duren? You’d probably want a spacing big man to give Giannis and Cade room to operate.

Is it Ausar? Is there a world where a non-shooter like Ausar, even with as good as he is defensively, can co-exist with Antetokounmpo?

Is it Holland? Is he actually ready to inherit so much responsibility?

Is it Daniss Jenkins? Just kidding … sort of.

You trade everything because Giannis is just that good, and he instantly opens a true title window for a franchise as long as there is another star left standing to play with the Greek superstar.

Giannis is third in the NBA in box score plus-minus behind Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His true shooting percentage remains top 10 in the league (.677) despite playing on a middling offense. He still gets to the line — 165 attempts this season, which is six more than Tyrese Maxey despite playing more than 300 fewer minutes. He is and remains elite.

I don’t think any deal with the Pistons will happen. But it feels like whichever team trades for Antetokounmpo will be happy they did. For the next three years, anyway.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/pist...ilable-of-course-pistons-should-be-interested

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons at Bucks final score: Detroit blows 18-point lead to Milwaukee

This felt like a game where Detroit beat themselves – a game we’ve seen many times before two or three seasons ago. Luckily, those days are behind us now.

The game started off with a Giannis Antetokounmpo injury a few minutes in as Detroit started the game on a 19-4 run. They had their biggest lead of the game 30-12 late in the first quarter as it looked like we were headed towards a blowout.

That’s when Milwaukee’s 2-3 zone started causing some issues.

The Bucks started to claw back in the second quarter because they packed the paint and forced the Pistons to play slow. Detroit had no Duncan Robinson in a game where they crucially needed him. After leading by 18, the Pistons held onto a narrow 52-49 lead at halftime.

The Cade-Duren pick and roll was nonexistent due to the 2-3 zone. Both struggled creating opportunities at the rim with Myles Turner sitting in the paint. Isaiah Stewart brought the intensity defensively, but after a complaint to the ref and a tussle with Bobby Portis, two technical fouls made him hit the showers early. This isn’t the first time he has gotten thrown out of a Milwaukee game where the team would go on to need him down the stretch, just to lose the game.

There were too many possessions of Detroit players passing up open threes to drive into an already busy paint to force up an attempt near the rim. At times, it was like this Pistons team had never played against a zone before. I hate to give Doc Rivers a compliment, but it was a great idea not playing man defense against Detroit. They were happy to help off Ausar Thompson and were willing to live with his open three-point attempts. There were no explosive halfcourt alley-oop lobs to Jalen Duren.

The Pistons led by seven heading into the third quarter, yet they would be outscored 35-24 in the fourth to go on to lose 113-109 to Milwaukee. Detroit was down three with 12 seconds left and Cade airballed the game-tying attempt – a good summary of the game overall.

Tobias Harris and Jaden Ivey were the lone bright spots for Detroit – they both shot 50% from the field and made multiple much needed three-pointers. Harris led the team with 20 points, and Ivey saw a season-high in minutes (19) and points (15).

Guards Daniss Jenkins, Cade Cunningham, and Caris LeVert combined to shoot 3-for-20 from deep tonight. That was the story of the game – Milwaukee packed the paint against the league-leading team for points in the paint, and dared them to shoot. Tonight, it worked.

Detroit will play again Friday night against the Portland Trailblazers at Little Caesars Arena.

Go Stones.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...core-detroit-blows-18-point-lead-to-milwaukee

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Submit your questions for The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast

Send in your questions now for this week’s episode of The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast to discuss everything Pistons. Submit your question to the comments section here or on X/Twitter to @TheRealWesD3 and/or @blakesilverman.

Join us live on Sunday morning for the show where we’ll discuss the Pistons’ week of games. How concerning was Wednesday’s loss to the Bucks? Speaking of the Bucks, any interest in one Giannis Antetokounmpo? If so, would you be willing to pay the high price? Plus, anything else on your mind following the home back-to-back against Portland and Milwaukee.

Plus, The Pindown has a phone line where you can leave a message and hear your voice on the show. Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message around 45 seconds or less so we can fit everyone into the show.

The podcast will be uploaded to all audio platforms the following morning.

The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast Vitals:​

When: Sunday December 7 at 11 a.m. ET

Where: Detroit Bad Boys YouTube Channel

How to submit questions:

• Detroit Bad Boys Website: Comment section of the weekly Pindown episode articles.
• Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message to 45 seconds or less.
• Twitter: @detroitbadboys, @blakesilverman or @therealwesd3
• YouTube: Chat section of The Pindown live recording — Subscribe here

As always, leave any questions or topics you want to be discussed in the comment section below.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...ons-for-the-pindown-a-detroit-pistons-podcast

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Under the Hood: Game 22 at Bucks – Zone Defense Struggles

And…we’re back! Hope y’all had a great Thanksgiving.

Under the Hood – it’s time to see what’s really going on inside this Pistons team.

Firing on All Cylinders

Doc Rivers and the Milwaukee Bucks exposed Detroit’s biggest weakness last night – their lack of perimeter shooting.

To beat a 2-3 zone, you want to force the defense to constantly move. Quick ball movement to find open shooters or cutters is the best way to attack. If you want to punish a zone, you need to score from deep.

Putting somebody at the high-post, above the free throw line in the middle of the zone is a good way of collapsing the defense. I think Cade had a couple of good possessions as the middle-man. A simple touch pass to LeVert forces Bucks’ Kevin Porter Jr to do a 360 as he tries to contest Caris’ open three.

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If the offense is struggling late in the possession, Cade being in the middle of the zone already has him in a great spot to create.

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We didn’t see too much of a 5-out offense against the zone, but we did see a possession late in the third quarter. You can see how much more room there is to cover for the defense, and some quick side-to-side movement at the top of the zone creates enough movement for Daniss Jenkins to get to a open jumper from the free throw line.

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Another good possession with quick ball movement and shooters along the three-point line where an Ausar drive-and-kick ends up as a hockey assist for a LeVert three.

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Transmission Trouble

Now, let’s look at some bad possessions.

Sure, this layup attempt by Ron Holland was weak, but that’s not the worst part to me. With six total people in the paint, including two Pistons, RoHo leaves a wide open corner to cut into a packed lane. Cade could’ve found him for an open three instead of a contested layup.

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Jaden Ivey makes a great step back three here, but the point of this clip is to watch how Milwaukee defends Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson.

I wrote last night in the game recap that the Duren roll was nonexistent and it’s because Milwaukee had no respect for Ausar’s jumper. Jericho Sims, to the left of Bobby Portis, is completely in the paint to double JD on the roll and left Thompson wide open on the wing. They treated Ausar like a non-shooting center.

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Just a frustrating take for me – there needs to be higher offensive awareness on this team to find a better shot late in the shot clock than an isolation into a packed paint to get an attempt over three Bucks defenders.

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Again, same complaint as above – this is a terrible take. Ron could’ve had an open three at the top of the key, but he instead turns a great shot into a terrible one as he drives right into Myles Turner.

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Mechanic’s Note

I will give Ron and Ausar their flowers, however.

One thing I enjoy that both of them do, which all struggling shooters should learn to do, is to get a running start before they receive a pass to try to catch the defense sleeping.

Ron attempted it in the above clip when he should’ve shot the three, but you can see him set this next one up. He’s slowly walking towards the three-point line, then starts running before the ball gets to him so it’ll help him get passed his defender.

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Ausar is capable of doing it as well. Here he starts running before the catch to get passed AJ Green. On his way to the paint, Jericho Sims has to help off the corner and Ausar finds Ivey for a wide open three.

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These are ways Ron and Ausar can still make a positive impact offensively if they’re not yet threats from deep.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/pist...-hood-game-22-at-bucks-zone-defense-struggles

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Trailblazers Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

After a completely dispiriting loss to a Milwaukee Bucks team whose only other win in 10 games was against the Brooklyn Nets, the Detroit Pistons are looking to rebound against the feisty Portland Trail Blazers. The Blazers are coming off of a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers and great performances from Deni Advija, Shaedon Sharpe, and Caleb Love. Former Piston Jerami Grant added 16, 6, and 5, and was a game-high plus 16. Toumani Camara played great defense and was an efficient 5-of-7 from the floor, including three threes. To put it as plain as I can, the Blazers can be a problem. And this Detroit team seems to love to create problems even when they don’t exist.

The Milwaukee game was a huge disappointment all around, but I was particularly upset with the big men. Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart combined for 13 points, 11 rebounds, and one ejection in 33 minutes of action. Detroit was outscored in points in the paint, which rarely happens, and on fastbreak points, ditto. Also, the turnovers. Oy. They have a lot to clean up.

Game Vitals​

When: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -7.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (17-5)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Portland Trail Blazers (9-13)​

Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, Sidy Cissoko, Jermai Grant, Kris Murray

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...blazers-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Blazers final score: This game was foul, but Detroit wins

The Basketball Gods ™ wouldn’t let the Detroit Pistons lose this one. It’s not that they played a perfect game, but they consistently outplayed the Portland Trail Blazers throughout. But the game was a mess. Some of that was Detroit’s fault — the offense is still scuffling for long stretches — but most of it was because this might be one of the worst-refereed games I have ever witnessed. If you have a Portland fan in your life, they would probably tell you the same thing. In the end, though, the Basketball Gods ™ spoke, and the Pistons prevailed 122-116.

Now, these biased eyes will tell you the Pistons consistently got the short end of the terrible referee straw. A bunch of infuriating, questionable calls went against the Pistons. None bigger than a crucial fourth-quarter, two-play swing.

With the Pistons up 103-102 with 4:03 to play, Tobias Harris had the ball at the rim and was clearly fouled on the arm by Robert Williams, but the refs called it a block. Deni Avdija quickly brought the ball up the floor, where he found Jerami Grant in the corner. Grant launched a three, hopping forward into an Ausar Thompson contest.

Grant made the three-pointer, the refs called a foul on Ausar, and then reviewed the call and said Thompson impeded Grant’s ability to land and upgraded the foul to a flagrant.

One, I’m not even sure Thompson made contact on the initial shot. Two, I can see the landing zone being straight up and down, but it is ridiculous that you would get to define your landing zone by how far forward you jump on your shot. Grant sank the free throw, the Blazers got the ball back, and Avdija made a 14-foot pull-up jumper.

What should have been a Tobias Harris two-shot foul suddenly became an eight-point swing in favor of the Blazers. Suddenly, the game was 108-103, and for the first time, I felt like the Pistons were destined to lose this one.

Cade Cunningham and Duncan Robinson had other ideas.

Cunningham played a patient, in-control game after a bit of a stinker against the Bucks. He finished with 29 points on 15 shots, sank two of his four three-pointers, had nine assists, three steals, a block, and only one turnover.

With Little Caesars Arena ready to erupt after this huge swing against the home team, Cade got himself to the free-throw line on consecutive possessions to make it a one-point game.

Then, Robinson answered an Avdija circus shot with one of his own, taking a movement three off of a screen with a man in his face and hoisted while off balance. The ball hit nothing but net, as George Blaha, who was honored at halftime for his induction into the Hall of Fame, would say.

The game was tied and the Pistons had new life.

Cunningham subsequently stole the in-bounds pass for a layup to give the Pistons a two-point lead, and Robinson went down after a Pistons stop to sink another three and effectively put the game away.

Duncan’s three-point shooting was much-needed. He hit four of his six threes, and created much-needed space for Detroit’s offense.

Other plays of note included Jalen Duren early, who generated plenty of offense when the Pistons were struggling to navigate the bizarre whistles. Then Isaiah Stewart late, who continues to be a menace at the rim. He blocked four shots and was a team-high plus-1o on the night.

Ron Holland also had a big showing. Miraculously, on a night when 64 fouls were called, Holland only had four. And it’s not for lack of playing his typical hard-nosed defense. He was all over the floor, and constantly found himself in scrums for lose balls, generating steals, jump balls, deflections and pure chaos. He also had his offensive game going tonight. He scored 17 points, hit three three-pointers, and had some critical quick-strike drives to the basket late.

The Blazers were led by Avdija, who played a brilliant game with 34 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Jerami Grant scored the quietest 29 points I can remember, as he is wont to do, and Shaedon Sharpe showed brilliant talent and also, in my opinion, played an awful game. He scored 28 points, but was a mess on defense and made several questionable decisions on offense.

As mentioned earlier, this game had 64 fouls on the night. The record this season is 66, but that was a triple-overtime game, per the broadcast. It was an absolute tire fire. Bad calls, late calls, no calls, and a crew that simultaneously dictated all 48 minutes of the game and yet never managed to have control of the game.

The Blazers, I’m sure, are furious, especially at how the last quarter was officiated. Detroit was in the bonus before three minutes had elapsed in the fourth, and Tomani Camara, Sidy Cissoko, and Kris Murray all fouled out. It was an abject disaster of a game.

But at least the right team won.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...nal-score-this-game-was-foul-but-detroit-wins

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Under the Hood: Game 23 vs Trail Blazers – Ron’s Potential

Under the Hood – it’s time to see what’s really going on inside this Pistons team.

Firing on All Cylinders

Last night was one of those games where you could see the vision for what Ron Holland could become. In just 20 minutes, he finished with 17 points, three rebounds, and a steal while shooting 6-for-11 from the field and 3-for-6 from deep.

To me, his biggest area of growth his is three-point shooting – he’s currently shooting 28.1% on 2.8 attempts per game, up from 23.8% and 1.9 attempts last year. Majority of his attempts this season have come from the right corner where he’s 9-for-25 (36%) so far.

I like this first possession where he has a drive-and-kick opportunity, but with nothing produced from it, he relocates to the corner to space out the floor. He takes his time once he receives the pass and he knocks down the shot with confidence.

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If Blaha says the bank is open, the bank is open.

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Ultimately, I believe this is how Ron can be used best as a 3-and-D wing – become a threat from the corners with a reliable three-point shot.

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Transmission Trouble

Ron’s still one of the youngest players in the league and it’s only the beginning of his second season, so he’s still learning when to drive and when to shoot.

This will improve over time with more possessions like this, but he has to shoot this ball – Duncan creates a wide open three-point attempt for him, yet he decides to drive into Robert Williams III and gets stuffed at the rim.

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I’m going to reuse a clip that I used in the previous Under the Hood, but Ron did the same thing last game against Milwaukee. He had a wide open three-pointer, but he instead drove into a packed lane to get a layup attempt. With more practice and confidence over time, Ron will learn to let these fly.

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Mechanic’s Note

Ron’s slashing style is different from Ausar or Cade who can play with a change-of-pace on their way to the rim. RoHo is more of a straight-line driver who can use his speed and size to get into the lane when he thinks he sees an alley.

While it didn’t work for him in the above two clips, he still had plenty of strong drives last night that will only continue to become more available as the strength of his three-point shooting grows.

Nothing fancy – just one dribble into a quick burst to get to the rim and draw the and-one.

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This next one was a great drive. He instantly attacks Jerami Grant’s top foot to beat him off the dribble and uses that patented RoHo eurostep to make the layup.

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If I was on the coaching staff, I’d be showing Ron these last two clips in comparison with the two from the Transmission Trouble section to show the difference in quality between drives.

The defenders are much closer to him and the three-point line to provide him with more room and space to beat them off the dribble.

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An athletic, 3-and-D forward that can hit mid-30s from three-point land in the corners is a very, very valuable piece next to Cade – Ron is on his way to turn into that piece.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/pist...-hood-game-23-vs-trail-blazers-rons-potential