The Detroit Pistons are facing a challenging period, having lost six of their last eight games. Injuries have played a part, with key players like Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson missing games. However, the struggles go beyond injuries, particularly with the starting lineup’s performance. Head coach JB Bickerstaff has emphasized the need for the starters to set the right tone and energy from the beginning, rather than relying on the bench to rescue games. This raises the question: Is it time for the Pistons to change their starting lineup?
Evaluating the Current Lineup
The current starting lineup of Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Tim Hardaway Jr., Tobias Harris, and Jalen Duren has logged 188 minutes together, resulting in a net rating of -6.98. Defensively, the Pistons have slipped to 18th in the NBA, with a defensive rating of 123.7 when this lineup is on the floor. Offensively, they fare slightly better with a rating of 116.8, but the defensive shortcomings overshadow any offensive gains.
The Pistons are now a quarter of the way through the season, and the sample size suggests that a change might be necessary. Tim Hardaway Jr. has struggled since returning from a concussion, and Jalen Duren’s energy and defensive presence have been inconsistent. Duren was expected to have a breakout season, but his performance has not met expectations, particularly on the defensive end.
Potential Changes and Challenges
One potential change could involve swapping Duren and Isaiah Stewart in the starting lineup. Stewart has thrived as a backup center, providing energy and defensive stability. When Stewart is on the floor, the Pistons’ defensive rating improves significantly. However, moving Stewart to the starting lineup could disrupt the balance and effectiveness he brings as a backup.
Another area of concern is the shooting guard position. While Hardaway has been a reliable shooter, the Pistons’ defense suffers when he and Ivey are tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best guards. This issue might be addressed by starting Ausar Thompson once he is fully fit and able to play extended minutes. Thompson’s defensive capabilities could provide the necessary boost to the starting lineup.
The Pistons are at a crossroads, needing to balance development with the desire to win games. Benching Duren could signal a shift towards prioritizing development, but it also raises questions about his long-term role and trade value. The team must carefully consider these factors as they contemplate changes to the starting lineup.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pistons’ lineup challenges, tune into the Locked On Pistons podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pistons Podcast:
- Struggles with guarding the three-point line
- The impact of injuries on team performance
- Potential trade rumors involving Isaiah Stewart
- The role of veteran leadership in the Pistons’ lineup
