Luka Garza battling his way into the Detroit Pistons’ rotation and future

In the Detroit Pistons’ overtime thriller against the San Antonio Spurs, fans got to witness Luka Garza’s career night, and a glimpse of what he can provide for the future.

In 40 minutes of action, Luka Garza had a monstrous performance, going 7-of-12 from the field, en route to scoring 20 points and grabbing fourteen rebounds, and recording the first double-double of his career, making history with his teammates in the process.

This was a continuation of Garza’s recent success over the Spurs, as he scored 20 points in 20 minutes in their prior matchup on December 26th.

What’s even more impressive is the fashion in which Garza scored.

Luka Garza showing an offensive bag for the Detroit Pistons

Throughout the course of the game, the big man scored on an array of jumpers, such as a one legged turnaround out of the post, a bank shot and a three pointer. Garza also had a game-high nine offensive rebounds, which led to several easy layups.

Garza’s instant offense has immediately dispelled any concerns over his offensive prowess translating from college to the NBA, as he already appears to be comfortable in and out of the post, and in one-on-one matchups on the block.

In the last three of four games (before last night’s win over Milwaukee), Garza has played over twenty minutes and has maximized his opportunities.

While his two games against the Spurs highlighted his scoring potential, his game against the Knicks showed his rebounding ability, as he snagged nine rebounds, and a team high four offensive rebounds. Garza also had a plus minus rating of fourteen, which was second best that night for the Detroit Pistons.

With several players returning to the lineup, it’s likely that Garza will see a reduction in minutes, but this small stretch is certainly a positive sign. With his size, skill, and feel for the game, Garza has ideal traits for Detroit’s current roster, and the one they appear to be assembling for the future.