5 Detroit Pistons storylines to watch in 2019-20
The Detroit Pistons have a roster that is primed to compete in the East but could easily be rebuilt around young pieces. Here are 5 storylines to watch.
The Detroit Pistons had a relatively quiet offseason, tweaking a roster that will return nine players from last year’s 41-41 squad. With media day behind us and training camp upon us, the stories are about to get more interesting, as the Pistons have training camp battles to sort out, rotation questions to answer and young talent to evaluate, all while making contract decisions that will affect the next decade of the franchise.
Here are five storylines that all Pistons’ fans will be following in 2019-20.
1. The Development of Sekou Doumbouya
Many thought the Pistons got one of the steals of the draft when they were able to land small forward Sekou Doumbouya with the 15th pick. He is long, active and runs the floor well, so he’s already being compared to Pascal Siakam, and in some insanely optimistic corners of #PistonsTwitter, Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The truth is that Doumbouya is still just 18 years old, and though he flashed some superstar qualities in the top French league, he has yet to compete against NBA talent. Pistons’ fans who think he is going to make a meaningful impact this year are probably going to be disappointed, but it shouldn’t be too far-fetched that he’ll get some minutes.
The Pistons have been abysmal at drafting and player development, so while fans are going to have to show patience with Doumbouya, the Pistons must show that they are doing everything to develop their young rookie, including giving him minutes if he is ready to play.
Must Read. Setting realistic expectations for Sekou Doumbouya. light
Doumbouya reminds me of another Pistons’ small forward drafted in the middle of the first round, Tayshaun Prince. Prince came into the NBA at 22, but was undersized, long and active on defense, just like Doumbouya. Detroit was able to ease Prince into the rotation in his first season, playing 10 minutes per game in 42 games with 5 starts. Doumbouya doesn’t have Prince’s shot or all-around basketball skills, but it would be a big win if the Pistons could find a way to work him into the rotation in his rookie season, like Prince.
The Pistons are thin at both forward positions, evident by the fact that they just signed Joe Johnson. I’d much rather see Doumbouya used to inject some athleticism and speed into the lineup in short bursts than Iso Joe holding the ball and guarding no one. The Pistons should let Doumbouya fly around, make mistakes and learn with the NBA roster, which will build his confidence. As the only player signed past 2021-22, his development is important, and will be one of the biggest stories throughout the season.