Kevin Huerter's journey with the Detroit Pistons has taken an unexpected turn. Just a couple of years ago, he might have been one of the top players on the roster, potentially the second option behind Cade Cunningham. Fast forward to now, and Huerter finds himself struggling to make the rotation after being acquired from the Chicago Bulls at the trade deadline.
Huerter's shooting woes this season, with a 30.6% from beyond the arc, haven't helped his case. But the real challenge is the Pistons' depth. Detroit's roster is brimming with talent, making it tough for Huerter to find consistent playing time.
The Pistons targeted shooting at the deadline, and bringing in Huerter was a smart, low-risk move. It cost them minimal assets in a three-team trade, and the potential upside was clear.
Despite their strong overall offense, ranked ninth in the league, Detroit struggles with three-point shooting, sitting third-to-last in made threes per game. Huerter could have been the answer, but his recent absence from the lineup highlights the team's existing depth.
However, there's still a silver lining. The Pistons, holding a comfortable 5.5-game lead in the Eastern Conference, might benefit from giving Huerter some minutes down the stretch.
His best form could be a game-changer in the playoffs. With room to experiment, the team might find that Huerter's shooting can turn the tide in crucial moments.
The Pistons' ability to trade for a player like Huerter and not rely heavily on him is a testament to their growth. It's a new era in Detroit, where depth is no longer a luxury but a standard.