Could the Detroit Pistons Be a Legitimate Force This Season?
The perception of a “top-heavy” lineup still exists, but behind some savvy offseason moves, the Pistons now feature some quality depth to challenge in the Eastern Conference.
Average. The Detroit Pistons aren’t good. They aren’t bad, they’re just average. Detroit’s top-heavy roster boasts several big-name stars, but the lack of quality depth has doomed them from being anything more than a team that barely scrapes by as a playoff team. So it brings up the question, what’s different this time around? Quite a few things actually.
It Starts With the Stars
When people talk about the Pistons you always hear the same line. “They’re not that bad, they have Blake Griffin and Andre Drummond.” But that’s sort of been the problem for Detroit the past few years. The Pistons have a very top-heavy roster with the front line of Griffin, Drummond and Reggie Jackson.
Even in today’s star-studded league, depth is key. But let’s not overlook the need for star power. Every championship-caliber team needs top-tier players to take them over the hump. Griffin and Drummond are living up to that pedigree, but Reggie Jackson has lagged behind a bit.
Reggie Jackson was the X-factor for the Pistons last season.
The Pistons went 18–4 when Jackson shot at least 50% from the field. When he fell below that mark, they went 22–37.
For Jackson and even Griffin, injuries have consistently reared their ugly head. Health will be a major factor this season. But if that trio can stay golden, they’ll continue to be the driving force of this team.
Underrated Offseason Moves
It’s tough when you’re in a small market. Detroit fans will tell you that. Still, the Pistons made a few savvy moves that will boost this roster. Detroit acquired Derrick Rose, Tony Snell, Markieff Morris, Joe Johnson and Sekou Doumbouya in the offseason. None of those names really jump off the page, but those guys could really pay dividends this year.
We start with Rose. The once highly-sought MVP is a shell of his former self, but he had something of a resurgence last season. Rose put up 18 points per game while shooting a career-high 37% from beyond the arc. Rose will be a versatile piece that can play either guard spot, come off the bench or start.
Snell is a solid 3-and-D player who can play either wing spot. Morris is a legitimate offensive threat who can play either the 4 or 5. Johnson, like Rose, is a once upon a time superstar that can still contribute in today’s game. The 15th overall pick of the 2019 NBA Draft, Doumbouya, is a player that’s a bit raw, but talented.
The Pistons weren’t able to attract a star in free agency, but frankly, they don’t need to. They need depth pieces to round out this roster. Detroit’s biggest problem last season was the glaring lack of wing depth. Guys like Rose and Snell will help in that department, but that’s only half the solution.
Development Is Key
Detroit, like many other small markets, has to build through the draft and trades. The Pistons have a ton of players that have flashed promise the past few years, but now everything hinges on their development.
Starting 2-guard Bruce Brown was stifling on defense last season, but his offensive contributions were close to nothing. It’ll be vital for him to develop a consistent three to help space the floor for Detroit’s stars. Former lottery pick Luke Kennard is a lights-out shooter, but he’ll need to continue adding to his offensive arsenal to make a splash.
And just like those guys, there are many players that will need to continue to improve to propel the Pistons forward. Thon Maker and Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk are a few of those names that fit that description. If someone can make a Pascal Siakam-esque leap and truly emerge this season, that’ll be huge for the Pistons.
Final Thoughts
It comes down to two things for Detroit. Health and depth. Development will be important for those role players to step into the limelight, but it’ll be even more crucial for Detroit’s trio of stars to stay healthy. Coach Dwayne Casey has put together a promising squad, it’s up to the players now.
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All statistics courtesy of Basketball-Reference.com.
