How Marvin Bagley lll will thrive in the Detroit Pistons’ offense

Detroit Pistons: Marvin Bagley III in dribble handoffs

This is a true staple of what Casey likes to do with his bigs. To thrive in this role it takes high IQ, along with high level of passing ability. You also have to use precise timing or it could result in a offensive foul, as a player is setting a screen and delivering the handoff simultaneously.

During this two man exchange the guard is looking to get downhill and into the paint. It’s common for the big to switch this action to prohibit that from happening and close off the lane. If done correctly the switch forces the smaller guards to defend the bigs, this is where Bagley can be most effective in this situation.

There’s two parts to this offensive set. The player with the basketball can either hand it off or keep the ball depending on how they read the defense. Similar to a read option play in football your decision is based off how the defense plays it. If he passes the basketball it’s considered a “clean exchange”, keeping the ball is often called a “dirty exchange” in basketball terms.

Clean Exchange 

Bagley is very agile and can move well. Utilizing his size is key after the handoff as he’ll likely have a smaller guard on him in most instances. Sealing that smaller defender will not only take him out of the play, it will also put himself in great position on the court. Finding creases for offensive rebounds, and put backs will be a testament to his mobility. Between catching lobs, reeling in drop off passes, and converting put backs look for him to be active in this role. He’ll be a formidable asset to the dribble handoff action, even when the ball doesn’t touch his hands. Being aggressive will suck the defense in, freeing up shooters from deep.

Dirty Exchange

Detroit Pistons fans will be excited when they see him in this role. After watching footage of Bagley in this role it’s a highlight waiting to happen. He has a crafty euro step he utilizes to avoid charges with his uncanny body control rarely seen at his size. He can score off the dribble as well as make plays for other players. He’s a underrated passer who will make the right play when his number is called. He’ll get his share of touches in dribble handoffs and when he does look out.