Surging Pistons Rebound, Hold Off Knicks For Another Victory
Surging Pistons Rebound, Hold Off Knicks For Another Victory
The Detroit Pistons, once the laughingstock of the NBA, are now one of the hottest teams in the league. After a 1-6 start to the season, the Pistons have won eight of their last nine games, including a 111-101 victory over the New York Knicks on Wednesday night.
The Pistons' turnaround has been fueled by a number of factors, including the emergence of rookie Cade Cunningham, the improved play of Jerami Grant, and the addition of veteran point guard Cory Joseph. Cunningham, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, is averaging 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. Grant is averaging 22.3 points per game, while Joseph is averaging 8.3 points and 5.8 assists per game.
The Pistons' defense has also been a key factor in their recent success. Detroit is allowing just 103.3 points per game, which is fourth-best in the NBA. The Pistons are also forcing 15.6 turnovers per game, which is third-best in the league.
The Knicks, meanwhile, have struggled to find their footing this season. New York is now 5-9 on the season, and they have lost three of their last four games. The Knicks have been led by Julius Randle, who is averaging 20.5 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. However, Randle has been inconsistent, and the Knicks have not been able to get enough production from their other players.
Cunningham Leads Pistons' Charge
Cunningham has been the driving force behind the Pistons' turnaround. The rookie point guard is averaging 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, and he has shown a knack for making big plays in key moments.
Against the Knicks, Cunningham scored 25 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists. He also hit a key three-pointer late in the fourth quarter to give the Pistons a five-point lead.
Cunningham's emergence has been a major boost for the Pistons. The rookie is already one of the best young players in the NBA, and he has the potential to be a star.
Grant Provides Scoring Punch
Grant has been another key contributor to the Pistons' success this season. The forward is averaging 22.3 points per game, and he has been a consistent scoring threat for Detroit.
Against the Knicks, Grant scored 20 points on 8-of-15 shooting. He also grabbed 6 rebounds and dished out 3 assists.
Grant is a versatile scorer who can score in a variety of ways. He is a good shooter, but he can also create his own shot off the dribble.
Joseph Provides Steady Hand
Joseph has been a valuable addition to the Pistons this season. The veteran point guard is averaging 8.3 points and 5.8 assists per game, and he has provided Detroit with a steady hand at the point guard position.
Against the Knicks, Joseph scored 12 points and dished out 6 assists. He also hit a key three-pointer in the fourth quarter to give the Pistons a five-point lead.
Joseph is a smart, experienced point guard who knows how to run an offense. He is also a good defender.
Pistons' Defense Stands Tall
The Pistons' defense has been a key factor in their recent success. Detroit is allowing just 103.3 points per game, which is fourth-best in the NBA. The Pistons are also forcing 15.6 turnovers per game, which is third-best in the league.
Against the Knicks, the Pistons held New York to just 101 points. The Pistons also forced the Knicks into 17 turnovers.
The Pistons' defense is led by Isaiah Stewart, who is one of the best young defenders in the NBA. Stewart is a physical presence in the paint, and he is also a good rebounder.
Conclusion
The Pistons' turnaround has been one of the most surprising stories in the NBA this season. After a 1-6 start, the Pistons have won eight of their last nine games, and they are now in contention for a playoff spot.
The Pistons' success has been fueled by a number of factors, including the emergence of Cade Cunningham, the improved play of Jerami Grant, the addition of veteran point guard Cory Joseph, and the team's improved defense.
The Pistons are still a young team, but they have shown a lot of promise this season. If they can continue to play well, they could be a surprise team in the Eastern Conference.
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