The Detroit Pistons' 2022-2023 season was yet another ho-hum mile marker in the franchise’s ongoing rebuilding process. With a talented young core the Pistons embarked on a journey to reshape their identity and lay the foundation for future success.
But when their superstar, Cade Cunningham was felled by an injury early in the season, hopes were dashed. Cunningham, who was a member of the NBA All-Rookie team in 2021-22, appeared in only 12 games. The Pistons limped to only 17 victories.
Under the guidance of head coach Dwane Casey, the Detroit Pistons focused on player development and establishing a strong team culture the last few years. Casey's emphasis on defensive fundamentals and fostering a hard-working mentality resonated with the team. Young players such as Cunningham, Saddiq Bey, and Isaiah Stewart showcased their potential, demonstrating growth and maturity as the season progressed.
But Casey is no more, as the Pistons swooped in to hire former Suns head coach Monty Williams, scooping several other teams that may have wanted the coveted leader. Williams will have work to do, if the Pistons are to steady themselves for the upcoming season.
Offensive Resurgence: Small Ball Pistons
The Pistons' offense displayed significant improvement compared to previous seasons. Led by rookie sensation Cade Cunningham, who showcased his versatility and playmaking abilities, the team's scoring output increased noticeably. Cunningham's ability to score from all areas of the court, combined with his court vision, made him a focal point of the offense. The emergence of other young talents like Saddiq Bey and Hamidou Diallo provided additional scoring options and helped spread the floor.
Stewart Spearheads Defense
While the Pistons' defense remained a work in progress, there were promising signs of growth. Isaiah Stewart's tenacity in the paint and shot-blocking ability brought a new level of energy to the team. The addition of veterans like Kelly Olynyk and Cory Joseph provided stability and experience on the defensive end. The team's commitment to Casey's defensive principles resulted in improved overall performance, although there is still room for growth.
Challenges and Setbacks
Like any rebuilding team, the Pistons faced their fair share of challenges and setbacks. Injuries to key players disrupted the team's rhythm and continuity at times. Additionally, the steep learning curve for young players inevitably led to inconsistency and a few tough losses. However, these obstacles served as valuable learning experiences for the team's young core, helping them develop resilience and adaptability.
The growth and potential displayed by Detroit’s young players, coupled with the leadership of a new coach in Williams, has instilled optimism among fans. The team's front office has a strong foundation to build upon, with upcoming NBA draft picks and cap flexibility. Detroit has the fifth selection in the upcoming NBA Draft. The team already has four players on the roster who are former first round picks.
With continued development and the potential for offseason acquisitions, the Pistons are positioned to take further strides towards becoming a competitive team in the league. While they may not have enough experience yet to make the playoffs, their focus on player development, improved offense, and glimpses of defensive progress highlight the promising direction of the team. With a young and talented core, exciting new head coach, and a clear vision for the future, the Pistons are on the right path to reclaiming their position among the NBA's elite.
Michael McKean is an experienced writer with a portfolio that includes work on the subjects of sport, gambling, travel and finance. With a background rooted in journalism, Michael first ventured into the professional writing world based in Switzerland, where he wrote for a number of language and travel sites and magazines before moving into the world of sports writing and gambling sites.
As an avid soccer fan, who follows everything from the Scottish lower leagues to the European elites, he has earned himself a solid reputation as a reliable football betting tipster and predictor. Outside of work, Michael has always gotten involved with grassroutes football everywhere he has worked and lived - UK, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland and Brazil - and still isn’t shy when it comes to pulling the boots on himself. As well as soccer, he has also developed a love of North American sports, particularly ice hockey - a love which began in Switzerland and saw him venture across the pond to follow the NHL. Moving away from dry land, he’s also a keen longboard surfer and is happiest when writing with a view of the ocean.
