Most will give positive feedback when you talk to people about the Detroit Pistons’ offseason. The organization started with fresh faces, adding players like Tobias Harris and Malik Beasley to bring more balance to the roster. Despite these promising moves, defense was one weakness the Pistons’ new president, Trajan Langdon, didn’t fully address.
Last season, the Pistons ranked 26th in opponents’ points per game and 25th in defensive rating. They also finished in the bottom half for opponents’ two-point field goals made, attempted, and percentage. Turnovers were another issue, with the team ranking 26th in forcing turnovers. These defensive struggles were a significant factor in the team’s overall performance.
Fans hoped the organization would bring players to shore up the defense, but they might have done so with the coach. J.B. Bickerstaff, a solid player developer and one of the better defensive-minded coaches in the NBA, is now at the helm. When he took over the Cavaliers’ head coaching position full-time during the 2020-21 season, the team was 17th in opponents’ points per game and 25th in defensive rating. Remarkably, the Cavaliers haven’t ranked worse than 7th in these categories over the last three seasons.
On the surface, fans might think these Pistons will be the same defensively. However, this may not be the case with Bickerstaff’s track record and his ability to develop defensive talent. Some players on this roster have the potential to become outstanding defenders under his guidance. Who are these players, and how can they transform the Pistons’ defense? Let’s explore.
3 Players Who Can Bolster The Pistons Defense This Season
Marcus Sasser: Bolstering The Pistons’ 2nd Unit Defense
During the Summer League, Marcus Sasser didn’t have the most significant offensive impact, shooting 33% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc. However, he continued to make substantial strides in his perimeter defense. Over the five Summer League games he played, Sasser averaged 2.0 steals per game, leading the team in this category. This performance showcased one of his key strengths coming out of college—his ability to defend on the perimeter—which he also demonstrated flashes of during his rookie season.
This season, Sasser faces considerable pressure to solidify the backup point guard spot on the Pistons’ depth chart. While his offensive numbers will be critical, his defensive contributions will be equally important. With the second unit the Pistons have assembled, featuring players who can score, such as Malik Beasley, Sasser can focus more on his defensive duties without being a primary scorer.
The Pistons’ bench includes players like Ausar Thompson and Isaiah Stewart, known for their effort and defensive capabilities. Sasser’s ability to disrupt opponents on the perimeter will complement Thompson’s and Stewart’s efforts, creating a formidable defensive unit. This synergy can help the Pistons maintain defensive intensity when the starters rest, significantly boosting the team’s overall performance.
Jaden Ivey: Prioritizing Defense and Unlocking Potential
Despite having one of the worst defensive ratings in the league last season, Jaden Ivey made noticeable strides on defense through sheer effort. Early in the season, his defensive lapses resulted in him losing his starting spot to Killian Hayes. Recognizing the need for improvement, Ivey focused on enhancing his defensive skills, understanding that becoming a significant contributor required more than offensive prowess. As the potential starting shooting guard, Ivey must continue to prioritize defensive effort.
Standing 6’4” and weighing 195 lbs, Ivey possesses the physical tools necessary to be an effective defender. His top-end speed is among the best in the league, allowing him to stay in front of opponents and contest shots effectively. Given these attributes, there’s no excuse for Ivey not to develop into a solid defender.
Under Bickerstaff’s guidance, Ivey has a prime opportunity to refine his defensive game. Bickerstaff’s coaching could give Ivey the necessary tips and pointers to leverage his physical gifts more effectively. For instance, Bickerstaff helped turn the Cavaliers into one of the top defensive teams in the league, with players like Darius Garland and Collin Sexton making significant defensive improvements under his tutelage.
Jalen Duren: Developing Into The Pistons’ Anchor On Defense
Physically, Jalen Duren has all the tools needed to be an exceptional defender. At 6’11” and 250 lbs, he possesses the size and strength to be a formidable presence in the paint. Additionally, his impressive athleticism allows him to contest shots, protect the rim, and switch effectively on pick-and-rolls. These attributes suggest that Duren has the potential to become a defensive anchor for the Pistons.
However, Duren needs to put it all together and become the player his potential indicates he can be. He often finds himself out of position, and his lack of movement and aggression can lead to foul trouble. These are common issues for young players and can be addressed with more game experience. At just 20 years old, Duren’s participation with Team USA’s select team this summer should provide valuable learning experiences and motivation.
Bickerstaff has a proven track record of developing big men into elite defenders, as seen with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley in Cleveland. Under Bickerstaff’s guidance, Duren can learn the nuances of NBA defense, improve his positioning, and refine his shot-blocking timing. Bickerstaff’s coaching can help Duren maximize his physical gifts, develop the discipline needed to avoid foul trouble, and maintain his defensive presence throughout games.
The Last Word
J.B. Bickerstaff’s coaching is poised to unlock these players’ defensive improvements, emphasizing positioning, discipline, and effective utilization of their physical attributes. His ability to turn players like Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland into pretty good defenders in Cleveland is a promising precedent for what he can achieve with the Pistons.
The focus on defensive improvements will be critical as the Pistons enter the 2024-25 season. If Bickerstaff can instill a solid defensive mindset and develop these young talents, the Pistons could see a significant reduction in opponents’ points per game and an overall improvement in defensive rating. This defensive transformation will help the team perform better in games and build a foundation for long-term success. The Pistons’ ability to shore up their defense will be pivotal in their quest to become a more competitive and balanced team.
