3 takeaways from the Detroit Pistons 117-100 loss to the Atlanta Hawks

The Detroit Pistons suffered an ugly 117-100 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on the second night of a back-to-back. Here are three takeaways.

The Detroit Pistons came into their game with the Atlanta Hawks on a high note after a great road win in Indiana, but an uninspiring second half spoiled the home opener and the Pistons lost 117-100.

The NBA didn’t do the Pistons any favors, scheduling a road/home, back-to-back to start the season. Not to make excuses but the Pistons had dead legs in the second half and it showed, especially on defense. It’s only the second game, but there have been some things to get excited about as well as some troubling early trends. Here are three takeaways from Detroit’s disappointing loss to the Hawks.

1. The Pistons have a point guard problem

Reggie Jackson had to be removed from the game in the third quarter due to tightness in his back and only played 15 minutes, going 2-for-8 from the field for five points. Jackson is clearly not 100%, which is disappointing, as this was finally supposed to be the year when he started a season healthy.

Injuries aside, Jackson has done little in the first two games other than walk the ball up the court, dribble lackadaisically and take bad shots. He’ll be re-evaluated before the next game against Philadelphia, coach Dwane Casey told reporters. With Jackson out or less than 100%, the Pistons are left thin at point guard, which was a concern coming into the season.

Trae Young and the Hawks exposed one of Detroit’s weaknesses, which is defense against quick point guards. Bruce Brown is a versatile defender, as he showed in Indiana, where he guarded positions 1-4. He’s quick for his size, but small, quick guys like Young can blow by him, which Young did at will Thursday night. Even with a healthy Jackson the Pistons’ point guard defense is going to be problematic and something to watch moving forward.