The Detroit Pistons snapped a three-game losing streak thrillingly Monday night, edging out the Toronto Raptors 102-100 on Jaden Ivey’s first career buzzer-beater. Ivey led the way with 25 points and eight assists, while Jalen Duren anchored the paint with 13 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks. Despite being dominated on the offensive glass—23 to six—the Pistons held on, even as they were outscored 25-13 in second-chance points.
The win was not only a morale booster but also marked the return of Ausar Thompson, a key piece of the Pistons’ future. Playing his first game in eight months following a blood clot diagnosis, Thompson contributed five points, three rebounds, and four assists in just 16 minutes. His defense and playmaking were on full display, offering a glimpse of how valuable he can be as he regains his rhythm.
As the Pistons approach their 20th game of the season, it’s time to evaluate this team’s early-season performance. What are their strengths? Where are the cracks showing? Let’s break it down.
Rising Pistons Combine Defense, Grit For Promising Young Team
Isaiah Stewart Thriving: Embodying Pistons Grit on Both Ends
While Duren has experienced ups and downs this season, Isaiah Stewart has thrived in his role as the backup center. His consistent impact has been so significant that head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has opted to evenly split minutes between the two. Stewart’s defensive presence has been a game-changer, with him on the floor the Pistons have a 107 defensive rating compared to a 112.2 with him off the court. His physicality and ability to anchor the paint have been evident, particularly during this recent stretch of games.
Over the past five games, Stewart has averaged 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 blocks while shooting an impressive 66/44/85%. These numbers reflect a continuation of his strong season. To date, Stewart has recorded four games with 10 or more rebounds, 10 games with two or more blocks, and seven games with three or more assists. Stewart’s two-way contributions provide a steadying presence, especially on nights when Duren struggles. His grit on both ends of the floor ensures the Pistons maintain a competitive edge, even when their starting center is not at his best.
Errors
Turnovers have been a significant issue for the Pistons, often costing them winnable games. The team averages 16.1 turnovers per game, ranking 24th in the NBA. Their turnover rate of 15.8% per possession ranks 25th, as does their 14.1% turnover rate per offensive play. These figures highlight a recurring struggle: the inability to take care of the basketball and capitalize on possessions.
Opponents have taken notice, increasingly applying pressure on Detroit’s guards as they bring the ball up the floor. While Cade Cunningham remains dynamic with the ball in his hands, his propensity for turnovers is evident. This issue stems, in part, from the team’s lack of a traditional point guard to handle defensive pressure consistently. Cunningham is growing into that role as the franchise point guard, and as he continues to fill out the role, it will come with growing pains.
Without addressing this need, turnovers will continue to plague the Pistons, limiting their offensive efficiency and putting added strain on their defense. Finding a solution—whether through internal development or roster adjustments—will be crucial for Detroit to minimize mistakes and maximize its potential.
Pistons Defensive Grit: A Relentless Force Shaping Their Identity
If there’s one word to define Detroit sports teams right now, it’s grit. The Detroit Lions have embraced it on their way to a 10-1 record, becoming one of the NFL’s elite teams. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons are carving out their own identity after a franchise-worst 68-loss season.
The Pistons have always been synonymous with toughness and grit, forcing opponents to earn every victory. This season, they’re rediscovering that rugged brand of basketball. They rank 10th in opponents’ points per game (111.0) and 12th in defensive rating (112.4). On the boards, they’ve been relentless, pulling down 46.7 rebounds per game (4th in the NBA), including 11.9 offensive rebounds (9th) and 34.8 defensive rebounds (6th). Their rim protection has also been stellar, ranking 8th in blocks per game at 5.6. If their offense can catch up to the defense, this Pistons team could become a legitimate problem for opponents.
The Last Word
The Detroit Pistons are beginning to show signs of their desired identity. This team is defined by grit, defense, and effort. Their offense remains a work in progress but has potential. However, their defensive improvements and rebounding dominance are undeniable. Players like Isaiah Stewart and Jalen Duren exemplify Detroit’s signature toughness. Jaden Ivey’s recent heroics also highlight the team’s offensive potential.
The Pistons need to tackle their turnover issues to progress. Balancing their offense with a strong defensive foundation is essential. By addressing these challenges, this young team can compete now while building for the future. Pistons basketball is rising—relentless and fueled by a roster full of grit ready to make its mark.
