Detroit is best described as a “sleeper” pick this season. Despite the hiring of Dwane Casey, not many are considering the Pistons as a viable contender in the East.
With limited roster turnover from a year ago, DET’s relying on a combo of internal growth + returning star power to put them in the mix.
In last night’s 97-91 victory over OKC, Andre Drummond poured in 31! pts (even with 7 missed FTs) & 16! boards. Drummond looked every bit of the player he was a year ago - made a couple plays in transition, converted on the interior + controlled the glass (like always).
It’s worth noting how Drummond performs when Blake Griffin returns to the lineup.
Their chemistry + production (or lack thereof) together is a major storyline in the Motor City this year.
*attempted 3 triples
Like many expected following his hiring this summer, Mike Budenholzer’s space-oriented offense is paying huge dividends for Milwaukee.
If last night’s blowout W over Chicago (116!-82) was any indicator, the Bucks have a shot to avoid extended offensive struggles in 2019, an area that’s plagued them the past few years.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s driving room seems wider than ever. With additional shooters (E. Ilyasova, B. Lopez) on the court, there's free reign to play faster in transition + make quicker decisions in half court sets.
Giannis finished w/ 19, 13 & 5 dimes in just 22 min. - although those stats are hilariously ordinary at this point, the way he dominated appeared (even more) effortless & comfortable.
If there’s a limited learning curve under Coach Budenholzer, MIL could start hot to kick off the year.