Post by Cleasby on Dec 9, 2013 20:50:42 GMT
Upping the Intensity
6-6
Detroit looking to that machine like team ethic
12 games gone in the very first season of the NAH and the new look Detroit Pistons have been exactly where they finished the last NBA season. Middle of the pack with some talent but some big flaws which are holding them back.
Starting the season with a more traditional line up of Williams, Haywood, Prince, Ibaka and Scola seemed to produce some average results which has lead to GM Cleasby reverting to his original plan of fielding two point guards in the backcourt and playing small ball. The hope that the extra play making ability will create more opportunities for easy buckets. Whilst this line up is still in its infancy questions will be asked of a team that were expected to be a late playoff seed this year.
The biggest question facing the Pistons early on is the inability of Deron Williams (the teams first round pick this year) to hit the ground running and post the sort of performances he is capable of. Bordering on the career lows in both field goal percentage and points scored is certainly a cause for concern. But it is thought that the adjustment to a new role on a new team will mean he will need some adjustment time.
Secondly the teams lack of steals and pressure on defence has been questioned by some pundits. Stating that the team is not forcing the opponent to make any poor decisions. Does this need to be addressed. We will see as the season progresses.
The team is also scoring approximately 4 points less than it is conceding on average. This means the team has yet to find its go to scorer. Again this is not a major issue at the moment but a small one that could continue to increase and quickly become a giant iceberg for the organisation. Cleasby will no doubt be keeping an eye on the trading market ready to pounce on any opportunities that may arise.
Whilst it has certainly been an average start for Detroit the season is far from over and hopefully if they can find their niche in a league that is dominated by superstars hopefully they can push on and finish the season in the playoffs ready to cause an upset.