Kennard, Ellenson lead Detroit Pistons in loss in Orlando

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: Luke Kennard walks on stage with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted 12th overall by the Detroit Pistons during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: Luke Kennard walks on stage with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted 12th overall by the Detroit Pistons during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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The Detroit Pistons lose their first Orlando Summer League game in controversial fashion against the Oklahoma City Thunder behind strong performances from their last two first round picks, Henry Ellenson and Luke Kennard.

The Detroit Pistons suffered a loss in their first game in Orlando–a game where they lead for all but one minute of the game. They would end up losing due to an officiating error which gave the Oklahoma City Thunder and extra free throw attempt to give the Thunder a one-point lead instead of tying the game. (Insert DETROIT VS EVERYBODY).

Here’s some highlights for you, via my twitter timeline:

some first quarter highlights.

You can see the video of the move I was referring to below:

After being compared to Dirk Nowitzki, Ellenso drew an interesting comparison to Luol Deng:

My final thoughts:

If they continue to perform with this consistency, Henry Ellenson and Luke Kennard look ready to contribute next season for the Detroit Pistons. That’s not to confuse that they will get the opportunity, but merely a comment towards their readiness. I think both could be strong contributors in 15-20 minutes per game.

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Lorenzo Brown and Pierre Jackson also looked good. Jackson in particular showed a competitive edge that I found impressive. Neither will get an opportunity to play for the Pistons, but they might somewhere else next season, unless the Pistons trade one of their top three point guards in Reggie Jackson, Ish Smith, or Langston Galloway.

Key contributors:

Henry Ellenson: 21 points, 7/17 (2/7 from three), 9 rebounds, 5/6 free throws.
Luke Kennard: 16 points, 6/14 (4/6 from three), 3 assists.
Pierre Jackson: 13 points, 4/9 (1/2 from three).