Heading into Monday’s recreation in opposition to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Detroit Pistons have been thought-about outsiders given the circumstances.
For one factor, the Pistons have been contemporary off a day street recreation in opposition to the Brooklyn Nets. Though they picked up a win on Sunday, it is by no means straightforward for a crew to win two in a row when it is back-to-back after a visit.
The truth that the Lakers have been getting into the sport with a successful report and an early MVP candidate was allowed to behave did not put the Pistons in any higher public view.
Nonetheless, earlier than Monday’s recreation, the Lakers didn’t take the Pistons frivolously. Though Detroit is coming off a 14-win season, Lakers head coach JJ Redick made it clear that his crew views the Pistons in a special mild this 12 months.
“There is not any doubt they’re a greater crew than final 12 months,” Redick informed reporters, in keeping with Coty Davis of Detroit Information. “The veterans they added, in addition to their younger gamers who’re enjoying at a excessive degree…It’s a very good crew and JB is a good coach.”
Redick’s feedback crediting the Pistons will age effectively after a Detroit win in opposition to Los Angeles.
As soon as once more, the Pistons have confirmed that they don’t seem to be to be slept on this 12 months. Via most of Monday’s motion, Detroit remained in management and even led LA by as many as 20 factors.
Detroit nonetheless has lots to work on as their younger core additional develops, however they proceed to show they could be a menace once they make all the pieces work cohesively.
The children did their job, beginning with the beginning backcourt of Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey. Cunningham had a double-double with 17 factors and 11 assists, whereas Jaden Ivey produced 26 factors on 10-16 capturing from the sphere.
Rookie ahead Ron Holland had a stellar efficiency coming off the bench producing 12 factors on offense whereas grabbing 4 rebounds and two steals on protection.
Then, the seasoned veterans performed their complementary roles effectively. Tim Hardaway’s capturing stays a significant asset, as he has knocked down 4 of his eight threes. Tobias Harris struggled from deep, however he nonetheless produced 15 factors in half-hour of motion.
The Pistons nonetheless have lots to enhance on, however their 3-5 begin is unquestionably promising. They may return to the sphere on Wednesday for a matchup in opposition to the Charlotte Hornets.
