{"id":108983,"date":"2024-11-26T17:58:04","date_gmt":"2024-11-26T22:58:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=108983"},"modified":"2024-11-26T17:58:04","modified_gmt":"2024-11-26T22:58:04","slug":"rising-pistons-defense-grit-promising-young-team","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2024\/11\/26\/rising-pistons-defense-grit-promising-young-team\/","title":{"rendered":"Rising Pistons Combine Defense, Grit For Promising Young Team"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Detroit Pistons<\/a> snapped a three-game losing streak thrillingly Monday night, edging out the Toronto Raptors<\/a> 102-100 on Jaden Ivey\u2019s<\/a> first career buzzer-beater. Ivey led the way with 25 points and eight assists, while Jalen Duren<\/a> anchored the paint with 13 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks. Despite being dominated on the offensive glass\u201423 to six\u2014the Pistons held on, even as they were outscored 25-13 in second-chance points.<\/p>\n

The win was not only a morale booster but also marked the return of Ausar Thompson<\/a>, a key piece of the Pistons\u2019 future. Playing his first game<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n

As the Pistons approach their 20th game of the season, it\u2019s time to evaluate this team\u2019s early-season performance. What are their strengths? Where are the cracks showing? Let\u2019s break it down.<\/p>\n