10 takeaways from the Detroit Pistons first half of the season
4. Kennard’s up-and-down season
Kennard is making a third-year leap but maybe not the one most expected. His scoring has improved by 2.3 points per 100 possessions but his largest gains have come as a playmaker.
Kennard, 23, has seen his assist rate spike to 18.9%, which is up from 12.3% last season. It’s been a pleasant surprise along with the efficient shooter he has been over the course of three seasons, converting 40.2% of career 3-point attempts.
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The southpaw, however, has been sidelined since late December with knee tendinitis and may not be healthy until the All-Star break. Opposing teams are taking notice as the Philadelphia 76ers seek Kennard in a trade but holding him out could force Philly to look elsewhere.
His knee injury could be a sign of things to come. He missed the 2018 Summer League with a left knee strain and missed time during the regular season with a sprained AC joint in his right shoulder. For Pistons fans, the hope is he gets – and stays – healthy.
The second half of Kennard’s season, whenever he’s cleared to play, will be telling for the future.