With a much-needed short rest ahead as the next rounds of the NBA Cup get underway, it’s a perfect time to evaluate the performances across the Detroit Pistons’ roster.
To preface: it’s hard to be overly critical of nearly anyone who has played significant minutes. Almost the entire Detroit roster has come close to or outperformed preseason expectations, and because the team has surpassed those expectations as a whole, many players have exceeded them individually as well. Maybe we’ll revisit things
around the All-Star break depending on how the team trends, but for now, let’s dive in.
Incomplete grade:
G Jaden Ivey, C Isaac Jones, F Bobi Klintman, G Chaz Lanier, F Wendell Moore Jr., G Marcus Sasser, F Tolu Smith
Cade Cunningham — B+
Cunningham continues rising toward the ceiling envisioned when Detroit drafted him first overall in 2021. While last year’s leap into an All-NBA-caliber player was larger than the step he’s taken this season, his stability as a playmaker and leader remains foundational. A grade this “low” for Detroit’s best player just indicates grading on the Cade Curve — he’s been awesome, but it feels like there is still so much growth ahead of him. His consistency has driven Detroit’s success, solidifying his status as the franchise’s superstar. The horizon with him remains equal parts exciting and tantalizing.
Jalen Duren — A+
In terms of year-to-year improvement, Duren may be the single biggest reason behind Detroit’s meteoric rise. At just 22 years old, he’s averaging 18.5 points and 11.5 rebounds, often asserting himself as the most physically dominant presence on the floor. His growing chemistry with Cunningham is trending toward elite-duo status, and his sustained success should continue well into the future—along with a significant payday this offseason.
Javonte Green — A-
Green was a big contributor during Detroit’s 13-game win streak when the roster was banged up. A seasoned NBA journeyman, he has fit exceptionally well into the culture and system Bickerstaff has established. His role will shrink as the team gets healthier, but he remains a reliable defender, energy piece, and off-ball threat whenever called upon.
Tobias Harris — B-
The “unc” of the roster has been a welcomed presence in his second Detroit stint. His leadership and composure buoy the team’s chemistry. On the floor, injuries, rare for Harris, have disrupted his rhythm. That lack of flow has made this season a bit more uneven offensively compared to last year. Still, Harris understands his role, and his scoring punch—when available—is a key ingredient in Detroit’s success.
Ronald Holland II — B–
Holland plays his role well, but given his Summer League flashes, you’d maybe hope for a bit more offensively so far. Still, he’s only 20. His energy, effort, and tenacity already serve him well, and if he can progress as a shooter and playmaker, it could meaningfully elevate Detroit’s ceiling.
Dannis Jenkins — A
One of the best stories in the league. Jenkins, undrafted and barely making the roster, seized his early-season opportunity and may have cemented a lasting role. During November’s stretch of injuries, he averaged 20.2 points and 7.6 assists over five games, helping keep the Pistons’ streak alive. With Ivey returning, his role may shift, but he’s earned real trust on this team.
Caris LeVert — B-
It took LeVert some time to settle into this team’s identity, but his importance as a steady scorer is now clear. He’s averaging 9.3 points—his lowest since his rookie year—but shooting a career-best 41.9% from three across 16 games. His role may fluctuate based on Ivey’s minutes, but efficiency and a strong veteran presence will keep him on the floor.
Paul Reed — B+
A fan favorite, and he embraces it. Reed’s strong playoff showing last spring earned him a new contract, and he’s been consistently productive in his bench role this year. His activity, defensive versatility, and energy continue to make him an ideal fit for this roster and that’s all carried over to this season as a reserve big man.
Duncan Robinson — B+
Detroit has gotten exactly what it expected from Robinson as a replacement for last year’s lost shooting. His transition from Miami’s famed “Heat Culture” to Bickerstaff’s environment has been seamless. With production mirroring his career norms, Robinson’s role may decrease slightly with Ivey’s return, but he remains a valuable, reliable floor spacer.
Isaiah Stewart — B+
Stewart is arguably the heart and soul of the team, and his impact on both ends remains vital. His biggest leap has been shooting—he’s knocking down 41.2% from three across 21 games. If that holds, Detroit gains enormous lineup flexibility, allowing Stewart and Duren to play together more often, which has already been effective. The team has a +13.2 net rating in the 167 minutes when both big men have shared the floor this season.
Ausar Thompson — B
The offensive jump some hoped for hasn’t quite materialized, though he appears more confident with the ball. Thompson’s shooting progress remains limited, especially from deep, but the Pistons don’t need him to be a strong perimeter threat yet. His defensive ability and all-around impact continue to be elite for a player his age, and that foundation has held steady year over year.
