The Pistons finally had a fully healthy roster again Friday night and they let all their guys play against the Hornets. Detroit came close to a full-strength lineup in the previous game against the Bucks, but was missing the final piece in Kevin Huerter. While most teams rested their players ahead of the playoffs, the Pistons gave full effort to maintain their competitive effort.
The Pistons wouldn't have it any other way
There were questions before the game about whether or not the Pistons should play all of their key guys in this one. But in retrospect, the Pistons have shown us all season long what they do in situations like this. Detroit has won so many games this season by putting in maximum effort regardless of the opponent, and it kept that flame alive even in a seemingly meaningless game.
The Pistons also had some extra motivation for this game because of the specific opponent. It was the first matchup between the Pistons and Hornets since their huge brawl back in February. Additionally, this could be a potential playoff preview since the Hornets will be in the Play-In Tournament with a chance to earn the 8th seed.
By beating the Hornets in such resounding fashion, the Pistons sent a resounding message for any potential playoff opponents. No matter the situation, you will not pick up an easy win against the Detroit Pistons. And chances are that the game will be incredibly hard-fought and physical.
A competitive game is just what the doctor ordered
Of course, there are concerns about potential injuries this late in the season. The Pistons' recent struggles with injuries to key players only amplifies these worries. But another underrated concern before the playoffs is players becoming detrained from intense competition.
Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart returned from injury very recently and had yet to play any games against comparable opponents. Throwing them into the fire of a playoff series without any prior opportunities for real competition since their injuries might not be the best idea. Instead, letting them ramp back up with no consequences for a loss is an ideal scenario.
If the Pistons do end up seeing the Hornets again in the playoffs, they will now have a psychological edge from the late-season victory. There was clearly no love lost between the two squads as the game wound down. A heated rivalry could be brewing between these two young teams on the rise, but the Pistons certainly have an advantage for now.
The Pistons DNA this season has been all about competing as hard as possible. They wouldn't sacrifice that trait no matter what, even for one of the final games of the season.