The Detroit Pistons recently secured a 106-92 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, moving to a 2-5 record. While a win is always welcome, this game was far from perfect. The Pistons’ performance was marred by turnovers and missed opportunities, highlighting areas that need attention as the season progresses.
Turnover Troubles
Cade Cunningham, a key player for the Pistons, has shown significant improvement in various aspects of his game this season. However, turnovers remain a persistent issue. High-usage players like Cunningham often face this challenge, but keeping turnovers in check is crucial. Last season, Cunningham managed to maintain a turnover rate of around 2.9 per game after the first 15 games, which is a reasonable target. Unfortunately, this season has seen a spike, with Cunningham recording multiple games with five or more turnovers. Against the Nets, he had seven turnovers, a trend that cannot continue if the Pistons hope to compete effectively.
The Pistons’ turnover woes weren’t limited to Cunningham. Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey also contributed to the team’s 14 turnovers in the first half alone. This level of carelessness with the ball is unsustainable, especially against stronger opponents. The Pistons were fortunate to face a struggling Nets team, but such performances won’t hold up against more formidable competition.
Shooting Struggles and Defensive Lapses
Beyond turnovers, the Pistons struggled with their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. The team shot 30% from deep, with Cunningham and Ivey combining for a disappointing 2 of 11. Consistent shooting is vital for the Pistons to capitalize on scoring opportunities and maintain pressure on their opponents.
Defensively, the Pistons were out of sorts in the first half, allowing the Nets to take a five-point lead into halftime. Jalen Duren, who had a rough start, turned things around in the second half, contributing significantly to the team’s improved defensive performance. Duren’s ability to protect the rim and secure rebounds was crucial in shutting down the Nets’ second-chance opportunities.
Despite the sloppy play, the Pistons managed to pull away in the fourth quarter, securing a much-needed win. However, this game serves as a reminder that there’s plenty of room for improvement. The Pistons must clean up their play, particularly regarding turnovers and shooting, to succeed in upcoming games.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pistons’ performance, tune into the Locked On Pistons podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pistons Podcast:
- Jalen Duren’s defensive improvements and impact in the second half
- Preview of the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers
- Analysis of the Pistons’ schedule and potential for upcoming wins
- Discussion on the Pistons’ shooting struggles and potential solutions
- Insights into the Pistons’ veteran contributions and their importance
