Standouts for the Detroit Pistons in first Orlando game
The Detroit Pistons blew out the New York Knicks in their first game at the Orlando Summer League 81-49. Let’s take a look at some player’s of interest.
The Detroit Pistons have had a busy week. They traded Jodie Meeks, signed Ish Smith and Jon Leuer, and today marked their first game at the Orlando Summer League.
Here are some of the takeaways:
Stanley Johnson
Before we talk about Johnon’s game, it’s evident that he’s put in significant time in the weight room this offseason.
Stanley Johnson wearing his new #7. I also think he's bulked up if that's even possible. pic.twitter.com/sUrajqzTlD
— Braden Shackelford (@Shack_attack03) July 2, 2016
As a 19 year old rookie, Johnson played at 242 lbs. It wouldn’t surprise me if he is around 250 lbs now.
Aside from the impressive work Johnson has done in the weight room, it’s obvious Johnson has been working on his basketball skills.
That last statement might lead you to belief he looks a lot better already. I apologize for being so misleading, let me clarify–it’s obvious that Johnson has been working on his basketball skills because he couldn’t seem to keep a consistent shooting stroke.
I think the tweet below describes it best.
Stanley Johnson's first two outside shots looked like he couldn't figure out how he wanted to shoot. His last shot? Flawless.
— Braden Shackelford (@Shack_attack03) July 2, 2016
While inconsistent with his shooting motion, Johnson did have a couple shots drop that were absolutely text book. Forget the numbers from the perimeter, because that doesn’t matter, his shot is improving.
Aside from the shooting stroke, Johnson was pretty awesome in just about every area.
Stanley johnson with a rebound assist and still in under a minute
— Braden Shackelford (@Shack_attack03) July 2, 2016
I really enjoyed Johnson’s passing and defense today. He brought it every possession and had four steals by my count. He also had a number of money passes in transition and in the pick-and-roll.
While his decision making was improved, he still had a few “no-no’s”, like jumping to make a pass and getting caught in the air with no where to go. He did that at least twice.
He also hit a variety of shots–layups, mid-range, turn around shots, and threes. His mid-range game is going to be impressive this year as his form was perfect from every shot at that range.
Johnson finished with 15 points (5/13 from the field), eight rebounds, and three assists along with the three or four steals that I counted.
He also had some interesting comments about how he feels already in comparison to last season.
Detroit's Stanley Johnson (@iAmSJ): "Last year, I felt like I was in elementary school. Now, I feel like a senior in high school."
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 2, 2016
Next: Henry Ellenson