The Detroit Pistons arrived in Philadelphia eager to erase the frustrations of missed opportunities and finally notch their first win of the 2024-25 NBA season. On Wednesday night, the Pistons played until the final buzzer to secure a spot in the win column. Led by Cade Cunningham and a returning Tobias Harris, the Pistons took control on both ends of the floor, defeating the Sixers 105-95.
Even though the Sixers were without Joel Embiid and Paul George, they didn’t make it easy for the Pistons. Tyrese Maxey led the Sixers’ charge, but Detroit’s balanced attack ultimately proved too much. With championship aspirations, the Sixers’ struggles won’t deter them from potential long-term success. With Embiid and George, due to come back soon, this rough stretch of games will only build character for the team as they navigate through the year.
This victory held extra significance for Harris, who spent six seasons with the Sixers. He posted solid numbers in Philadelphia, averaging 17.6 points and 6.6 rebounds. Yet, he often took the blame for the Sixers’ postseason struggles. Sixers fans were not welcoming on his return. But Harris let his play do the talking. He made key contributions that silenced the crowd and reminded them of his impact.
With Detroit returning home to face the New York Knicks on Friday, what were some of the biggest takeaways from this win, both good and bad? Let’s dive in.
Pistons Show Cohesion And Growth In Win Against Sixers
Ivey’s Ongoing Development Shines for the Pistons In Matchup Against The Sixers
Entering the season, questions lingered about Cunningham and Jaden Ivey’s ability to coexist as starters in the Pistons’ backcourt. With the hiring of Pistons president Trajan Langdon, rumors even circulated about Ivey potentially being traded. However, Langdon and new head coach J.B. Bickerstaff recognized Ivey’s raw talent and understood that he just needed the right guidance to thrive. Five games into the season, Bickerstaff has unleashed the Ivey that Pistons fans hoped to see when he was drafted fifth overall in 2022.
Ivey has shown more than just his elite speed and agility to drive to the rim; he’s proving himself to be a reliable shooter too. What was once a weakness—his ability to knock down open shots when defenses collapse on Cunningham—has turned into a strength. Through five games, Ivey is shooting an impressive 47.5% from the field and 42.9% from beyond the arc. His work with Fred Vinson has been instrumental in transforming Ivey into a more well-rounded offensive threat.
A Shift At The Five?
Jalen Duren has the potential to become a dominant force at center, yet consistency remains his biggest hurdle. On Wednesday night, he logged just 10 minutes, largely due to mental lapses with screen-setting and an ongoing struggle with foul awareness. Going up against Andre Drummond forced Duren into a battle that quickly cost him in terms of court time. If he’s finding it difficult to match up with both perimeter-oriented and traditional centers, how long can the Pistons continue with him as their starter?
On the other hand, Isaiah Stewart seems to be hitting his stride. He embodies the physical, versatile style the Pistons need at the center position. Stewart isn’t just willing to get physical; he’s also capable of switching onto the perimeter and challenging opposing offenses. The Pistons’ defense looks notably better with Stewart on the court, underscoring his impact on both ends.
Getting Into His Groove
When he was traded in the offseason, Tim Hardaway Jr. was seen by many as a player past his prime. Although he was the Mavericks’ third-leading scorer last season, he saw his minutes disappear in the playoffs. This raised questions about his fit on a young Pistons team that wasn’t initially considered a playoff contender.
But Hardaway Jr. has quickly embraced the Pistons’ culture, emerging as both a productive player and a veteran leader. Despite a rocky preseason, where he shot just 11% from beyond the arc and raised some concerns, Hardaway stayed focused and undeterred by his struggles. Now, those concerns are a distant memory: Hardaway Jr. is shooting with renewed confidence, hitting 53.3% of his three-point shots—among the top 30 in the league. As the Pistons’ guards continue to develop, Hardaway Jr. could see even more opportunities to knock down key shots.
With Ausar Thompson expected to return soon and reclaim the starting small forward spot, a question emerges: should Hardaway stay in the lineup if he continues producing like this? Thompson is a core piece of the Pistons’ future and needs valuable reps to reach his potential. However, with the Pistons eyeing a potential Play-In Tournament berth in an open Eastern Conference, Hardaway’s veteran presence and scoring could be crucial.
The Last Word
The Pistons’ first win of the season over the Sixers means more than just a victory. It highlights the potential of this evolving team. Cunningham’s steady, composed play led the charge. Detroit is showing signs of cohesion and growth. Key performances came from both returning players and new additions. Harris made a statement in his old stomping grounds. Ivey has emerged as a versatile scoring threat. Hardaway Jr. has reignited his impact on the court.
As they prepare to face the Knicks, the Pistons have a chance to build on this momentum. Their young core, seasoned by leaders like Cunningham, is proving that it can rise to meet challenges. Whether balancing development or contending for the play-in, Detroit has a chance to make this season one to remember.
