Detroit Pistons: Why this losing season is different, even enjoyable

Detroit Pistons: The youth movement has started

The name of the game for the Pistons now is stashing draft picks and collecting tradeable assets to have the flexibility to make moves, while hoping that some of the young players pan out. As mentioned in previous slides, for the past few years the Pistons have been competing to make the playoffs, so there was an emphasis on acquiring players who will be able to contribute immediately.

This win now mentality left many of the Pistons young players to rot on the bench when they could have been on the floor gaining minutes and valuable experience. If the team was having success this would not have been an issue.

However, when the goal is to make the post-season every year and nearly every year that goal is not reached, it can be infuriating seeing the rookie that got no playing time on the Pistons getting playing time on another team and playing well. This season is different because we get to see many young players every night as they mature as NBA players.

It is absolutely disheartening what happened with Killian Hayes in his rookie season, however, I applaud the front office for making the right decision and shutting him down for the year. I would rather be safe and have Hayes 100 percent for next season as opposed to rushing him back this season just for him to never quite be right.

Saddiq Bey has been stellar this season and our best performing rookie so far, averaging 10 points and four rebounds while shooting 43 percent from three.

Josh Jackson appears poised for a breakout season averaging 12 points per game (Put up 27 points in game three vs the Hawks). Isaiah Stewart, while his numbers are not necessarily eye-popping (4 points & 5 rebounds) has shown why he will be a Pistons’ favorite with his relentless motor that is reminiscent of Dennis Rodman or Ben Wallace.

Jerami Grant has been the Pistons’ best player this season and a strong candidate for the most improved player award at just 26, averaging 24.8 points, 6 rebounds, a block, and a steal.

Lastly, Sekou Doumbouya entered the season as one of the Pistons we would have expected to break out the most.

Unfortunately, for whatever reason, Doumbouya has not gotten much playing time this season. Us Pistons fans are praying that changes as Doumbouya is arguably the most talented Piston we have.

For better or for worse, watching this young core this season is fun and should continue to be.