Caris LeVert's season with the Detroit Pistons has been a tough one, marred by injuries that have kept him from finding his rhythm on the court. This year, LeVert has struggled to make an impact, averaging just seven points per game in 20 minutes off the bench, marking the lowest output of his career.
The Pistons brought in LeVert with the expectation that he would bolster their defense and offer more versatility on offense. Unfortunately, those expectations haven't been met, partly due to the nagging injuries that have plagued him throughout the season. It's been a challenging year for LeVert, who has missed 19 games and is currently sidelined with a sprained wrist.
In his 10th NBA season, LeVert has only managed to play 65 games or more three times, a trend that continues this year. This is a departure from the usual strategy of Pistons' decision-maker Trajan Langdon, who typically targets durable players like Tobias Harris, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Malik Beasley-guys known for their reliability and minimal injury history.
LeVert's acquisition raises questions about what made him an exception to Langdon's usual approach. Was it his relationship with coach JB Bickerstaff from their time with the Cavaliers that influenced the decision? Whatever the reason, the move hasn't delivered the desired results for Detroit.
Despite the setbacks, it's important to acknowledge that injuries have likely played a significant role in LeVert's struggles. His scoring average is half of what it has been over his career, suggesting that his current form isn't reflective of his true capabilities.
The Pistons' gamble on LeVert's potential, despite his injury-prone history, hasn't paid off this season. As they look ahead, they'll need to consider whether the risks associated with injury-prone players are worth the potential rewards.