Players the Detroit Pistons need to finish the roster
By Indy Perro
Detroit Pistons: Does the core fit together?
As a backcourt of the future, Cunningham and Ivey complement one another well. Their abilities are quite different, but they both possess an overall game that should allow them to play together while each offering a unique manner of attack.
Both should prove to be plus defenders, and both can play multiple positions. Cunningham could play the three if necessary, running the offense with two perimeter players floating. After Cunningham’s injury, Ivey proved he could run the point, and he can also play the three in a three-guard lineup if Monty Williams chose to play small.
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As I mentioned earlier, Ausar Thompson should serve as a Swiss army knife. He defends at a high level, can provide solid offense as a third or fourth option, and his athleticism should complement the multifaceted backcourt and a front court with outside shooting and a lob threat. As he develops, he should become the type of player who can play with anyone in the NBA.
Isaiah Stewart’s improved shooting should help him play a dual role on the Detroit Pistons. If his shooting shows up, he would be an excellent complement to Jalen Duren. If he remains an adequate but not great shooter, he’s a solid backup center in smaller lineups.
Stewart might not have the speed to shift onto smaller players, but his strength and intellect should allow him to see switches before they happen and react accordingly. Thompson’s athleticism and awareness should help in this regard as well.
Jalen Duren should be the type of athletic center who can play solid minutes in the NBA even in a perimeter shooting era. He provides size and strength in the paint and dominate the boards. Although he won’t stretch the floor, he knows to cover space and not just his man, and his ability to impact the game through hustle makes him a highly complementary fit.
With a core that complements one another well, Detroit will need to eventually fill out their roster with players who fit other needs.