The Pistons are on a roll lately, and even without Cade Cunningham, they’re finding ways to win, thanks in large part to the strong contributions from their bench. Kevin Huerter has been a standout, proving himself as a versatile shooter who’s making a real impact in the rotation. His ability to step up has transformed the Pistons’ bench dynamics, providing a much-needed boost in the absence of their usual offensive leader.
Kevin Huerter: The Pistons' Secret Weapon
Huerter showcased his full range of skills in a recent matchup against the Pelicans, racking up 22 points while shooting an impressive 9-of-14 from the field and 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. When Huerter is on from downtown, he rivals the shooting prowess of Duncan Robinson on the Pistons' roster. But Huerter isn’t just about the threes; he’s unveiling a diverse skillset that could be pivotal for Detroit come playoff time.
Huerter’s shooting threat, combined with his surprisingly tight handle, allows him to attack defenders who close out too aggressively. This often results in easy finishes inside or opportunities to set up teammates.
Against New Orleans, he consistently drove to the rim when defenders overcommitted on the perimeter. Whether he’s catching the ball or making smart cuts for backdoor finishes, Huerter is proving to be a revelation off the bench.
A Game Changer for the Pistons
While Duncan Robinson’s impact among the starters is undeniable, Huerter is providing a similar spark for the bench unit. If he continues delivering this level of performance in the playoffs, paired with the Pistons’ usual grit and physicality, Detroit’s depth could become a significant advantage against any opponent.
Huerter’s Defensive Growth
Beyond his offensive prowess, Huerter has made strides on defense, evolving into a more complete two-way player. While he might still be the weakest defender on the court for Detroit, he’s no longer an easy target for opposing teams. This improvement rounds out the Pistons’ bench lineups, allowing them to maintain balance without sacrificing defense for offense.
Huerter’s off-ball movement and shooting threat create opportunities for his teammates, which is crucial as the Pistons navigate Cade Cunningham’s absence. Detroit no longer has to compromise between offensive and defensive liabilities when Huerter is in the game.
In the playoffs, where weaknesses are often exploited, Huerter offers the Pistons a new edge that opponents will find hard to counter. His emergence as a reliable two-way player could be the difference-maker for Detroit as they aim to make a deep postseason run.