Power ranking the 2018-19 Detroit Pistons: Who tops the list?

DETROIT, MI - MARCH 07: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors defends against Blake Griffin #23 of the Detroit Pistons in the second half of an NBA game at Little Caesars Arena on March 7, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. 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. The Raptors defeat the Pistons 121-119. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images) /

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DETROIT, MI – FEBRUARY 7: Luke Kennard /

#5 Luke Kennard

No, Luke Kennard is not Donovan Mitchell, but that’s okay.

Despite the constant criticism from fans who wished the Pistons had drafted Mitchell instead, Kennard proved last season that he is a valuable NBA player.

He shot nearly 45 percent on catch-and-shoot 3-pointers last season, and ended the year averaging 7.6 points per game while averaging 20 minutes per game.

Aside from his superb shooting talent, Kennard also showed the ability to handle the ball.

While he was drafted as a pure shooting guard, his unheralded but impressive ball-handling made an impression on the new coaching staff. Going into the Summer League, Dwane Casey planned on using Kennard as the point guard, until an unfortunate injury derailed that trial run.

The big debate this offseason will be deciding whether Kennard or Reggie Bullock should start at shooting guard. Both players are fantastic shooters. Bullock is a better defender, although Kennard proved to be less of a sieve on that end than originally expected. The deciding factor might be Kennard’s play-making ability.

Those rooting for Kennard to start should be encouraged by his performance in that role last season. In a meager nine games, Kennard shot a scorching 62 percent from deep, while 10.0 points and 2.4 assists per game. He was also a +4.1 in plus-minus.

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