The Detroit Pistons Summer League record is irrelevant. What matters is how the individuals played. Isaiah Stewart, Jaden Ivey, and Isaiah Livers stood out.
Stewart Could be the Detroit Pistons Power Forward
Beef Stew showed that his three-point shooting is coming along. He's always been undersized for the 5, but now he can play the stretch four. He continues to display that he can guard smaller players in the pick and roll.
I've always been a fan of Stewart's. I think he was still recovering from injury for much of last season. Towards the end of the season, he looked livelier and had some of the explosiveness we grew used to during his rookie campaign. I still think Stewart is a core piece.
Jaden Ivey is Cade's Perfect Backcourt Partner
I know it's a small sample size, but I think Ivey's performance in the Summer League is a preview of what's to come. The Pistons have historically famous backcourts: Isiah and Joe; Chauncey and Rip. Could Cade and Ivey be up next?
I've been saying Ivey is the best fit for the Pistons since before March Madness. His game complements Cunningham's perfectly. He should be considered a dark horse for Rookie of the Year.
Isaiah Livers Should Compete for Playing Time
Livers made a clear case for being in the rotation. Where will those minutes come from? He'll have to get them from Hamidou Diallo, Alec Burks, or Kelly Olynyk. I think Diallo's game is unique enough for him to stay in the rotation. It depends on if Livers could adjust to playing against bigger players.
Livers' defense and outside shooting make him an ideal Pistons' second unit member. If Diallo and Kilian Hayes play together, they'll need someone to shoot the ball. It comes down to Livers and Burks.
Jalen Duren's Upside is Incredible
While Duren may not play at the beginning of the season, I expect him to quickly find his way into the rotation. His athleticism and rim protection will get him on the floor. Watching him and Stewart play defense together was fun. I think the Knicks will regret giving him away to sign Jalen Brunson (who is overrated, by the way).
Killian Hayes or Saben Lee?
Hayes is the lottery pick, but Lee has played better. I was surprised to see Hayes play in just one Summer League Game. He manages the game well. We could be looking at an ideal backup point guard. He can come in, change the pace, and get everyone involved. He is also an excellent defender. The problem is that Hayes and Lee have similar playing styles.
They both remind me of Lindsey Hunter. While I doubt the possibility of a rotation of the two playing together, they could resemble the Bulldogs from '04 (Lindsey Hunter and Mike James).
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