The Pistons’ depth has been a major advantage for them this season, and the latest major injury to Rockets center Steven Adam proves its importance. Although the Pistons could have consolidated some talent for a bigger name, they’ve held off so far. That decision could prepare them better to deal with injuries both in the regular season and playoffs.
The Pistons are perfectly set up to handle injuries
Adams’ season-ending ankle injury doesn’t have to ruin the Rockets’ playoff hopes but it is a major blow. Houston already lost starting point guard Fred Van Vleet before the season began. Now adding another reliable veteran contributor to the injury list is a tough pill to swallow.
The Pistons have been lucky enough to avoid such major injuries this season, but have insulated themselves well with depth regardless. Rather than making a desperate move, the Pistons are rolling with their winning formula. Although some marginal upgrades would be nice, it’ll be important to retain their depth advantage.
The best case scenario for the Pistons will be continued development from their young players to improve the roster without even making a trade. Shooting and general offensive creation are still in short supply, but the Pistons have enough options to fill in different offensive roles.
This season, the full depth of the Pistons’ roster has been unleashed through the brilliance of coach JB Bickerstaff. Even in games when the Pistons are missing their star players, including Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren or both, they’ve put together wins. It’s a testament to how well Bickerstaff has prepared every member of his team and the reliability of the Pistons’ stifling defensive foundation.
However, the Pistons’ lack of depth in key areas could come back to haunt them in the playoffs. Much has been made of Detroit’s lack of shooting outside of Duncan Robinson, and rightfully so. Additionally, the Pistons don’t have any reliable playmakers outside of Cunningham.
In the postseason, opponents will do their best to exploit these weaknesses with suffocating defenses. Whether it’s forcing the ball out of Cade’s hands or sagging off anyone not named Robinson, Detroit’s playoff foes will have a game plan ready to attack their weaknesses.
The Pistons should see key injuries around the league as a learning opportunity. While it’s always great to make improvements, especially in their up-and-coming position, it’s also important not to stretch the roster too thin. As big names come up in the trade market and their teams demand multiple players in return, it’ll be an important lesson for the Pistons to remember.
In the meantime, adding to their depth with more shooters and playmakers will make them even more deadly.