Detroit Pistons vs. Minnesota Timberwolves 2019-20 season preview

Pistons O vs. Timberwolves D

Detroit capitalized on one of the Timberwolves’ biggest weakness last season – defending the perimeter. Minnesota was the worst team in opponents’ 3-point percentage, allowing 37.8 percent from beyond the arc.

With the Pistons improving their 3-point shooting, after ranking 23rd in the league last season hitting 34.8 percent of those attempts, it will be another solid matchup. Though the increased attention on perimeter defense with the additions of Culver and Layman, the likes of Tony Snell, Luke Kennard and, potentially, Joe Johnson should benefit.

Drummond has abused Towns in eight meetings, all wins for the Pistons. Drummond is averaging 20 points, 16.4 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 1.1 steals per game in the matchup. That should be a stark advantage again in this year’s season series.

Increased attention on Drummond in the paint should keep wing defenders away from off-ball shooters. Ball movement will be key for Detroit’s offensive success to capitalize on open shots with appropriate floor spacing.

Expect Kennard, Reggie Jackson, Snell and Griffin to benefit from the increased attention on Drummond.

If you’re a daily fantasy sports player, there is a high attention on revenge games, which could be the case with Rose and playing his former team. He played well in the matchup in Minnesota, though some forced shots hurt his efficiency, but he hit a career-best 37 percent from 3-point range. He delivered an impressive 50-point performance early in the season that led him to becoming a Sixth Man of the Year candidate before an injury derailed that.