Shooting Guards and Small Forwards
Kennard got his first start of the season and scored 14 points in 31 minutes on 5 of 11 shooting. The first statistic I always look at with Kennard is attempts, and 11 attempts is not enough. I’ve been banging the “Kennard needs 15 shots a game” drum for the entire season, but the Pistons’ offense is at its best when Kennard is getting plenty of looks.
He had an efficient game, with only one turnover, and knocked down 3-6 three-pointers, including a couple of daggers that put an end to Indiana rallies. Kennard wasn’t featured as much as most fans would like, but he was efficient and hit some big shots.
Bruce Brown B-
Brown has struggled mightily on offense in the young season, so it was nice to see him get 11 points on 4 of 5 shooting, including 3 for 3 on three-pointers. Turnovers are still a big problem for Brown, who is coughing it up an astounding 29.4 percent of the time he gets the ball.
Last night was no different, with Brown turning it over three times, including on his very first play in the game. So while it was nice to see Brown knock down some open shots, he must take care of the ball better if he wants to stay on the floor. He did grab 7 boards, several of the “in traffic” variety late in the game. Brown is still a work in progress, but he finally showed some life against Indiana.
Galloway’s shooting woes continued against Indiana, as he went 2 for 9, including 0 for 3 from three-point range. Galloway is shooting a miserable 32% for the season and has made exactly one three-point shot, which is supposed to be his specialty. Galloway did mix things up with some dribble penetration, but he was unable to hit the close-range shots to finish.
He has played decent defense in the young season, which, along with injuries, is keeping him in the rotation. We all know Galloway is streaky, so it will balance out, but at some point, he needs to show he can do it night after night or his time as a Piston is likely coming to an end.
Small Forwards
Tony Snell C+
Snell came out of the gate firing, which is a good sign considering he took just four shots in the previous game against Philadelphia. He hit two early three-pointers and it looked as through Snell was finally going to break through for a big game. Then he did what he has done in every game so far, disappeared. He ended the game with just six shot attempts in 22 minutes and was a non-factor down the stretch, when Brown took over at small forward.
Snell is still trying to find his place in the Pistons’ offense, but his lack of volume is a concern, especially when he is shooting 42 percent from behind the arc. The Pistons need more from the wing position than six shots a game. Casey has to find a way to get Snell a few more looks, ideally closer to ten shots a game.