Three Observations from the Detroit Pistons First Preseason Games
Pistons basketball is back and so are a few observations on how the team has looked in the preseason so far.
The Detroit Pistons have played two of the team’s five preseason games and the results have, so far, been mixed. Record-wise, which is truly the most meaningful form of measurement in preseason, the Pistons are 1-1. Playing .500 ball all season would likely make Detroit a playoff team in a weaker Eastern Conference. But again — preseason records are entirely worthless.
What does matter is the level of individual and team play that is taking place on the court.
Here are a few observations from the first 96 minutes of the Pistons preseason.
Jaden Ivey Primed to Bounce Back
Last season will be an anomaly to Ivey’s career. Through two preseason games, Ivey has built on the impressive rookie campaign that solidified him as a building block for the Pistons.
Against the Milwaukee Bucks, Ivey poured in 22 points on 6-8 shooting including going 3-3 from the 3-point line. Versus the Suns, Ivey recorded 16 points, five assists, and four rebounds in 23 minutes of court time.
The third-year guard played with intensity, aggression, and passion that was locked away last season under previous head coach Monty Williams. As Ivey looks to reclaim his place as a pillar of the Detroit Pistons, this renewed, confident version must remain.
J.B. Bickerstaff Wasn’t Lying About Jalen Duren
At Media Day last week, new head coach J.B. Bickerstaff spoke about his desire to utilize Jalen Duren early in the shot clock and put the ball in his hands more on offense. Through two preseason games, that has been a clear emphasis for the Pistons on offense. Duren is spending a lot of time at the top of the key — not just setting screens — but making passing decisions often looking for cutters towards the rim.
This new introduction to Detroit’s offense will be a work in progress. It would likely function a lot smoother if Duren had an off-the-dribble game or a mid-range jump shot in his arsenal, additions that will likely need to take place as time goes on.
Putting the ball in Duren’s hands is something that I suggested on several occasions throughout the offseason. It is encouraging to see this new coaching staff aggressively look for new ways to maximize Duren’s abilities and improve the flow of an offense that was beyond lackluster this past season.
Tobias Harris is Missed
The Pistons have been without Tobias Harris in both preseason games due to illness. His presence, on both ends of the floor, has been missed.
Detroit shot under 32% from the 3-point line in these past two games, and the lack of wing shooting has been noticeable. Eventually, players like Malik Beasley, Simone Fontecchio, and Tim Hardaway Jr. will likely shoot themselves into a rhythm. But Harris’ stability is one of his greatest attributes and his scoring punch will be a boon to this team when he returns.
Harris has been listed as out for the first two preseason games due to an illness, so a return should be imminent. His next chance to suit up is on Friday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The Pistons have three preseason games remaining before the team opens the regular season on October 23rd against the Indiana Pacers.