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Detroit Pistons Season Preview: Starting Lineup Stats Breakdown
Projecting the Pistons' Starting Five for the 2023-24 Season
After a disappointing 2022-23 campaign that saw them finish with the league's worst record, the Detroit Pistons are looking to make a leap in the upcoming season. With a young and talented roster, the Pistons have the potential to surprise some people in the Eastern Conference.
One of the key factors to the Pistons' success will be the play of their starting lineup. With several young players vying for starting roles, there is still some uncertainty surrounding who will be in the starting five come opening night. However, based on their performance in the preseason, there are a few players who seem to have a leg up on the competition.
Cade Cunningham: The Franchise Cornerstone
Cade Cunningham, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, is undoubtedly the Pistons' franchise cornerstone. The 6-foot-8 guard had a solid rookie season, averaging 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. He also showed flashes of his potential as a playmaker and defender.
Cunningham is expected to take a major leap in his second season, and he will be the key to the Pistons' success. He has the potential to be a do-it-all star, and he will need to live up to that potential if the Pistons are going to make a playoff push.
Jaden Ivey: The Electric Rookie
Jaden Ivey, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, is another player who is expected to make a big impact for the Pistons. The 6-foot-4 guard is a dynamic athlete with excellent ball-handling skills and a smooth jump shot. He also has the potential to be a lockdown defender.
Ivey is still raw, but he has the talent to be a special player. He will need to improve his decision-making and shot selection, but he has the potential to be a star in this league.
Isaiah Stewart: The Enforcer
Isaiah Stewart, the 6-foot-8 center, is the Pistons' enforcer. He is a physical presence in the paint, and he is not afraid to mix it up with opponents. He is also a solid rebounder and defender.
Stewart is not the most offensively skilled player, but he does not need to be. He provides the Pistons with toughness and grit, and he is a key part of their identity.
Saddiq Bey: The Sharpshooter
Saddiq Bey, the 6-foot-8 forward, is the Pistons' sharpshooter. He is one of the best young shooters in the league, and he can create his own shot off the dribble. He is also a solid defender.
Bey is a key part of the Pistons' offense, and he will need to continue to improve his game in order for the Pistons to take the next step.
Marvin Bagley III: The Wild Card
Marvin Bagley III, the 6-foot-11 forward, is the Pistons' wild card. He is a talented player with a lot of potential, but he has not yet lived up to expectations. He is still only 23 years old, so there is still time for him to develop.
Bagley is a good scorer and rebounder, but he needs to improve his defense and decision-making. If he can put it all together, he could be a major asset for the Pistons.