The Detroit Pistons are grappling with a familiar issue this season: a lack of secondary scoring. This predicament might push them to lean on Tobias Harris as a second option, a strategy that previously fell short during his time with the 76ers. Back in Philadelphia, Harris struggled to deliver in the playoffs, a tough pill to swallow given his hefty salary.
During the 2024 playoffs, Harris averaged a mere 9 points per game for the 76ers, despite earning close to $40 million a season. The Pistons are wary of repeating this scenario, but they might find themselves with limited alternatives.
Jalen Duren has stepped up as the team's second-leading scorer and earned an All-Star nod, yet creating his own shot remains a challenge. If Cade Cunningham faces tight coverage, Harris could be the go-to for clutch scoring.
It's a tall order for Tobias Harris
Harris isn't entirely unfamiliar with playoff success. He posted an impressive 22 points per game in the 2021 playoffs with the 76ers.
However, at 33, his prime scoring days seem behind him. Despite this, the Pistons still turn to him when the pressure mounts.
As the shot clock winds down and defenses tighten, the Pistons often rely on Harris in the post. He's proven effective, especially against smaller defenders, using his signature bump and fadeaway. Yet, this approach might falter in the playoffs, regardless of the matchup.
The real challenge isn't Harris himself but the Pistons' halfcourt offense. They've thrived on fast breaks and Cade Cunningham's pick-and-roll prowess. But when opponents slow the pace and disrupt their rhythm, Harris becomes one of the few viable options.
A glimmer of hope with Tobias Harris
This reliance on Harris doesn’t have to spell doom. Last season, Harris delivered solid playoff performances for the Pistons, averaging nearly 16 points per game while shooting 48% from the field and 43% from beyond the arc against the Knicks. These are respectable numbers for a player in a demanding role.
If the Pistons can strategically utilize Harris where he excels, they can capitalize on his contributions. However, expecting him to consistently create under pressure is likely to lead to frustration. The key will be placing Harris in situations where he can thrive, allowing him to play to his strengths.