Detroit Pistons: 3 intriguing matchups vs. the Pelicans

Detroit Pistons: Jerami Grant vs. Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram is an All-Star and the league’s reigning Most Improved Player, two titles that Jerami Grant would like to have after this season.

Ingram is a superior offensive talent to Grant but struggles on the defensive end, so Grant may be able to get the better of him.

He needs to make Ingram use a lot of energy on defense, something he does not like to do, which could take him out of his offensive rhythm.

On the other end, Grant needs to stay in Ingram’s face and not give him space, as BI has the length to shoot over just about anyone if he has even the smallest window.

The Pels love to run high pick-and-roll with Ingram and Steven Adams, so Grant has to battle over Adams’ screens (good luck) otherwise Ingram will kill the Pistons with his mid-range game, which is deadly.

Grant always seems to step up when challenged by another All-Star-level small forward and should be up for the task against Ingram, but it won’t be easy.

The key is making Ingram work on the defensive end and taking care of his weaknesses while not allowing him to just sink 15-foot jumpsuits all night.

Ingram also has some issues with turnovers, so if the Pistons can make him dribble the ball and play in isolation, they might be able to take advantage.