Detroit Pistons: 2 best positional battles of the preseason so far
The Detroit Pistons got a shorthanded victory against the Spurs to tip off preseason with both Cade Cunningham and Killian Hayes on the bench.
The Pistons used some early hot shooting and late defense to get the win behind strong games from Jerami Grant, Saddiq Bey, Cory Joseph, Josh Jackson and newcomer Kelly Olynyk, who all scored in double figures.
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There were some interesting bench units used in the game that showcased the Pistons’ increased depth and they got strong games from a veteran group that played surprisingly well together.
Veterans vs. young players is going to be one of the themes of the preseason that will carry into the regular season, as the Detroit Pistons have several young, high ceiling players who are battling it out with their more experienced veteran counterparts.
Detroit Pistons: Talent vs. experience
The Pistons have a nice mixture of veterans and young talent, which is a good place to be.
Even though the Pistons are not expected to make the playoffs, this is not a tanking season, so expect Dwane Casey to use the groups that give him the best chance at winning.
Some nights this might be the young players, as the Pistons’ most talented guys are in their first and second years, but I could also see Casey using veteran groups in tight games or to close things out late.
Two such battles of youth vs. experience started in the first preseason game and will continue all though the season.