The Detroit Pistons are slowly figuring out that Paul Reed can play consistent, quality minutes. And as they prepare for a potential playoff series against the New York Knicks, having another guy who they could deploy in double-big lineups could give them a huge leg up against the Knicks’ size.
New York rolls out Karl-Anthony Towns at the five spot. But behind him, they have Mitchell Robinson. And the Knicks, at least in the past, haven’t hesitated to roll out both of them on the floor together, creating towering double-big lineups that give them a massive size advantage. But the Pistons could have an answer.
And Reed could play a huge part in that.
Paul Reed gives Pistons a third big to play against Knicks' double-big lineups
Obviously, the Pistons already have two great centers. Jalen Duren just made his first All-Star game this season, and Isaiah Stewart has been one of the most underrated defenders in the NBA.
Once the playoffs come around, JB Bickerstaff will be able to play those guys together when needed. Especially in a series against the Knicks, and especially if they play Towns and Robinson in a double-big lineup.
But those guys can’t play all the time. They’ll need a break. And based on the last couple of weeks, Reed has clearly proven capable of giving the Pistons big-time minutes.
Most recently, in the Pistons’ February 19 win over the Knicks, Reed got the start. Stewart and Duren were both out. New York should have had the advantage. But they didn’t.
Instead, Reed helped lead the Pistons to a massive 126-11 victory at Madison Square Garden. He finished the game with 18 points, seven rebounds, two assists, one steal, and three blocks while shooting 7-of-9 from the floor.
That’s not just any old backup center. Reed has proven capable of playing in huge moments for the Pistons. He’s not afraid of the moment. Far from it.
And once the playoffs come around, particularly in a potential series with the Knicks, having three big men who can all play in the postseason will be crucial for Detroit.
Reed’s rebounding, rim protection, and finishing around the rim have all flown way under the radar, but now, it seems clear that the Pistons realize how useful he can be.
Obviously, Reed isn’t going to play too much when Duren and Stewart are fully healthy. At least, not on a game-to-game basis. But the Pistons now know what they have. Maybe they’ve known all along.
Regardless, the Pistons having a third big who can contend with New York’s size is a massive win for Detroit.