Detroit Pistons 2019-20 preview: Luke Kennard’s profile

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DETROIT, MICHIGAN – MARCH 06: Luke Kennard #5 of the Detroit Pistons celebrates a second half three point basket with Bruce Brown #6 while playing the Minnesota Timberwolves at Little Caesars Arena on March 06, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit won the game 131-119. 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 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Kennard’s Outlook

Many fans are still understandably bitter about missing out on a player like Mitchell in the draft. Mitchell has already shown All-Star potential and has completely re-shaped the outlook of the Utah Jazz franchise moving forward.

But Pistons fans should not let this distract them from the blossoming talent Detroit has found in Kennard. It’s true that at this point, he doesn’t look like a future All-Star, nor a player who can single-handedly change the franchise’s fortunes.

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In Kennard, however, the Detroit Pistons have found an important piece to the decade-long puzzle of regaining relevancy.

Kennard does not offer the Pistons dazzling athleticism and ability. You won’t see him throwing down high-flying dunks or throwing flashy passes.

What you will see is a player who knows his role, plays within himself, and excels at what he’s asked to do.

In many ways, that’s as “Detroit” as it gets.

The Pistons have never relied on superstar talent to win. The Bad Boys and the Goin’ to Work Pistons, some of the best teams in NBA history, were collections of players who simply played their part and brought a winning mentality to the franchise.

This is all Detroit can and should ask from Kennard. Piece by piece, the Pistons can once again construct a roster that can compete at the highest level in the NBA.

It won’t happen today, and it won’t happen tomorrow, but with players like Luke Kennard, Detroit can build a foundation that launches a once-proud franchise back into title contention.

Kennard’s profile is the latest in a month-long series through August that highlights each Pistons player, reviews their previous season and offers insight into what their role could be in the upcoming season. Here are the profiles-to-date.

Stay tuned as next week Piston Powered’s attention turns to the frontcourt.

Next. Detroit Pistons 2019-20 preview: Khyri Thomas' profile. dark

How do you feel about Luke Kennard’s development and what steps does he need to take to improve in year three? Let us know in the comments or join the discussion by liking Piston Powered on Facebook and following Piston Powered on Twitter.

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