The Detroit Pistons swept the Phoenix Suns last season but here’s why it could be more of a challenge during the 2019-20 season.
The Detroit Pistons took care of business against one of the NBA’s cellar dwellers last season, the Phoenix Suns. Detroit’s hope is that it happens once again in 2019-20.
Although improved, the Suns aren’t expected to climb the Western Conference ladder very high. There is a lot more balance among the powers in the West, and both the Clippers and Lakers improved mightily in their own division.
Last season, in a 118-107 win over the Suns in November, Reggie Jackson wasn’t particularly sharp. He had a usage rate of 29 percent and was 6-for-20 from the floor and 4-for-15 from 3-point range. Otherwise, the Pistons shot 50.7 percent from the field and 46.2 percent from 3-point range. That’s the difference between a close game in the fourth quarter and a blowout win on home court. As an aside, six Pistons were in double figures with a nice balance for a change.
Even better the second time around, Detroit had seven reach double figures in a 118-98 win in the desert. Andre Drummond had 16 points and 19 rebounds. Wayne Ellington scored 23 points on 6-for-10 shooting from 3-point range, which balanced out Blake Griffin‘s 2-for-11 from distance.
Phoenix has done a remarkable job of adding depth to their roster. The meetings with the Pistons could be highly entertaining with Devin Booker in the mix and a new arsenal of weapons around him.
Let’s take a look at how the Suns improved their roster this season.