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Three Takeaways From Detroit’s 124-117 Win Over Dallas

By Nicolas Henkel

DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 31: Bruce Brown #6 of the Detroit Pistons plays defense against during the game against Jalen Brunson #13 of the Dallas Mavericks on January 31, 2019 at Little Caesars Arena 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 31: Bruce Brown #6 of the Detroit Pistons plays defense against during the game against Jalen Brunson #13 of the Dallas Mavericks on January 31, 2019 at Little Caesars Arena 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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After their first preseason meeting since 2010, the Detroit Pistons erased a 14 point deficit to come out on top over the Dallas Mavericks. Here’s what we noticed:

The Pistons Second Unit Means Business

The back court of Derrick Rose and Luke Kennard  combined for 37 points 6 rebounds and 7 assists on 70 percent shooting. They proved to be the spark that the Pistons needed in the second half, where the team scored 74 points total. Derrick even looked his former self at one point, going coast to coast in a matter of seconds and attacking the basket for a layup. Luke continued to show us that he’s an ever evolving wing in this league, displaying new offensive moves and hitting a few step back perimeter shots.

Along with the stellar play of the back court came quality minutes from bother Markieff Morris and Thon Maker, the latter of whom has received much criticism from the fan base over the last several months – but not tonight. Both were showing a willingness to hustle on defense and Markieff showed aggression while playing with the ball down low, something that Detroit desperately needs when Andre Drummond is off the floor.

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The bottom line is that the Pistons have consistent scoring on their bench, and it was on full display in last night’s win. The potential is there, and at times they looked marginally better than the starting unit in terms of off the ball movement and blatant shot making.

Andre Drummond Is Playing Up To Par With His Value

After playing a total of 24 minutes tonight (which is admittedly more than expected but a sample size nonetheless) Andre scored 13 points while grabbing 9 rebounds and 3 blocks. He was playing phenomenally as a rim protector and even muscled his way to the basket a few times for easy points.

This is significant because it directly addresses the two biggest concerns fans had about him during this last off season. Critics note his (at times) inability to create shot opportunists for himself in the low post, as well as his occasional lackluster effort on defense.

This season however appears to be an iteration of Andre that we’ve not yet seen. Granted – again – it’s only the second game of the preseason so take that for what it’s worth. However, thus far the athleticism and coordination of Andre on both ends of the floor could very well grant him that five year contract extension worth $190 million next summer.

The Battle For The Final Roster Spot Remains Unsolved

The most difficult thing about the competition between Joe Johnson and Christian Wood for the final roster spot – is if we don’t see them play, a decision is harder to come to. However,  that’s more or less what happened in last night’s game against Dallas.

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Christian only played a total of nine minutes, but Joe played zero. Is that in itself something to read into? After all, Christian played marginally better in the preseason opener, and even had an impact in the Mavs game despite his limited floor time.

The problem is that Detroit desperately needs consistency in their backup center position, something they may not get from Thon or Markieff. Christian provides stability in a position where the Pistons are lacking, whereas Joe is in a position that Detroit has a surplus. Out of all the potential options the Pistons have to alleviate the necessary space in order to sign Christian on for the season, none of the players that could be released or traded would have as much of impact as Christian would.

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There is a universe in which Detroit hangs on to both players, which may be the most optimal route. However, we’ll have our answer here in just a few weeks.

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