The Detroit Pistons are on an impressive streak, having won four consecutive games and positioning themselves just half a game away from the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. This surge in performance, especially with key players like Jaden Ivey sidelined and Tobias Harris missing two games, has infused hope and optimism within the fanbase. The current landscape of the Eastern Conference appears relatively weak, fueling the belief that the Pistons could secure a top-four seed during the playoffs.
However, despite this positive momentum, head coach J.B. Bickerstaff may need to make some adjustments to the team’s rotation. The Pistons have been relying on a nine-man rotation, which includes Isaiah Stewart, Ron Holland, Javonte Green, and Caris LeVert off the bench. With Stewart stepping up to the starting lineup in place of Harris, Paul Reed now serves as the ninth player in this mix.
One area for potential improvement is the allocation of minutes. Javonte Green, a veteran signed in the offseason primarily as a depth option, has been averaging 17.4 minutes per game. While Green’s experience and defensive versatility have contributed positively, his offensive limitations are becoming a concern. He has been shooting in line with his career three-point percentage but struggles significantly with two-point attempts, resulting in an unsatisfactory True Shooting percentage of 44.1%. Consequently, opposing defenses tend to neglect him, causing congestion in the paint and hindering the performances of scorers like Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson.
In contrast, Ron Holland has demonstrated greater effectiveness coming off the bench, despite occasional foul trouble, and could merit increased playing time beyond his current average of 21.8 minutes per game. Caris LeVert, known for his offensive capabilities, could also see more minutes instead of being limited to just 19. Additionally, players like Daniss Jenkins and Chaz Lanier, who have fluctuated in and out of the rotation, could step up to enhance offensive production in Green’s stead.
While the Pistons are undoubtedly performing well, it’s crucial for the coaching staff to optimize their lineup by shifting minutes towards players who can more effectively contribute at the offensive end. This strategic move could not only preserve the team’s winning momentum but also enhance their chances as they approach the playoffs. The Pistons’ current form, driven by a communal effort and strategic adjustments, signals a promising future as the season progresses.