The Detroit Pistons’ offseason has been met with positive feedback from many, as the organization brought in fresh faces like Tobias Harris and Malik Beasley to enhance the roster’s balance. President Trajan Langdon made some promising moves, but it seems that one area he didn’t fully address was the team’s defense.
The Pistons struggled defensively last season, ranking 26th in opponents’ points per game and 25th in defensive rating. They also were in the bottom half in opponents’ two-point field goals made, attempted, and percentage. Additionally, they ranked 26th in forcing turnovers, highlighting the team’s defensive deficiencies that hindered their overall performance.
Despite these concerns, fans shouldn’t write off the Pistons’ defense just yet. Assistant coach J.B. Bickerstaff has a track record of developing defensive talent, and there are players on the roster who have the potential to excel on that end of the court. So, who are these players that could bolster the Pistons’ defense this season?
One player to keep an eye on is Marcus Sasser, who showed promise during the Summer League. While his offensive numbers may not have been stellar, his defensive contributions stood out. Sasser led the team in steals, showcasing his ability to defend on the perimeter, a skill he also flashed during his rookie season.
Moving forward, Sasser will be under pressure to solidify the backup point guard spot and contribute defensively, especially with the Pistons’ second unit featuring scoring threats like Malik Beasley. Sasser’s defensive prowess, combined with the efforts of defensive stalwarts like Ausar Thompson and Isaiah Stewart, could create a formidable defensive unit off the bench, boosting the team’s overall performance.
Another player who could make a defensive impact for the Pistons is Jaden Ivey. Prioritizing defense and maximizing his potential could be key for Ivey as he aims to contribute on both ends of the court. With the team’s depth at the guard position, Ivey has the opportunity to showcase his defensive skills and elevate the Pistons on that end of the floor.
In conclusion, while the Pistons may have some defensive concerns heading into the season, players like Sasser and Ivey have the potential to bolster the team’s defense and make significant contributions. With the guidance of coaches like Bickerstaff, the Pistons could see improvements on the defensive end as they aim to compete in a competitive Eastern Conference.
