The Pistons were hoping for Jaden Ivey to emerge as Cade Cunningham's backcourt co-star this season, but it hasn't panned out so far. Instead, Ivey has been shown up by less heralded guards on the roster. He's struggled since his return from injury and is having arguably the worst season of his career.
Jaden Ivey could be playing his way off the Pistons
Ivey has failed to find a consistent rhythm since his leg injury and subsequent surgery. He's averaging just 8 points and 2 assists per game this season on limited playing time (17 minutes per game). Even worse than his raw production is his efficiency. Ivey is shooting 45% from the field and a putrid 34% from long range.
In spite of all his talent and speed, Ivey has failed to crack the healthy starting lineup because of his inefficiency. Instead, the Pistons have opted to keep veteran Duncan Robinson on the floor for the opening tip. Robinson may not be as talented all-around as Ivey, but his strong shooting fits better next to Cade and the other starters.
The Pistons have always had high hopes for the Ivey since drafting him fifth overall in 2022. At times, he's been given the reins to lead the offense during his career. And he played very well in a secondary role last season before an unfortunate injury after 30 games.
But Ivey's continued disappointment this season surely has the Pistons asking questions about his long-term fit. He can be an important trade piece if the Pistons decide to aggressively pursue a roster upgrade this season. The Pistons should be able to get some value out of him in a trade from his prior prestige as a high draft pick and flashes of potential in previous seasons.
It's not too late for Ivey to establish his role on the team either. He will be a restricted free agent next summer, but he can remain on the Pistons in his next contract. At his current rate, it'll be far from a maximum contract extension. But agreeing to a longer-term deal to give Ivey some stability could be mutually beneficial for both sides, assuming it gets done at the right price.
Jaden Ivey seems to have regressed in certain parts of his game this season, namely his outside shooting. But if he can approach his efficiency from last season again, while bringing solid defense and continuing to attack the basket strongly, there's still a place for him in Detroit's rotation. Ivey might never have the chance to prove himself as Cade's costar this season, but that doesn't mean he can't still help the Pistons win games in another role.