It’s clear that JB Bickerstaff isn’t satisfied with just getting the win—he wants the Pistons to maintain a high level of play for a full 48 minutes. Blowing a 28-point lead down to just two is definitely concerning, even if they managed to hold on. It sounds like Bickerstaff is trying to instill a winning mentality and accountability, which is crucial for a young team like Detroit.
The Pistons have plenty of talent, but consistency has been an issue.
It’s good to see Jalen Duren and other Pistons players taking accountability, but letting a depleted Hornets team nearly pull off a comeback is definitely concerning. Detroit has struggled with consistency all season, and this game was another example of how they can’t afford to let their foot off the gas.
With Cade Cunningham back and Dennis Schroder making his debut, the Pistons should have had the depth to put the game away comfortably. Bickerstaff’s frustration makes sense—if they want to build a winning culture, they can’t be “going through the motions,” as Duren put it.
Do you think this was just a one-off issue, or is it a sign that the Pistons still have a long way to go in terms of maturity and closing out games?
Another triple-double in Cade Cunningham’s return
Cade Cunningham’s return was a huge boost for the Pistons, and his eighth triple-double of the season just reinforces how vital he is to this team. Being tied for third in triple-doubles alongside Domantas Sabonis while trailing only Nikola Jokić and LeBron James puts him in elite company. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways—scoring, playmaking, and rebounding—shows why he’s a franchise cornerstone.
It’s also encouraging to see balanced scoring from the supporting cast. Tobias Harris leading the team with 20 points, Malik Beasley continuing his strong bench production, and both Ausar Thompson and Jalen Duren making big contributions up front are all positives.
Even with the near-collapse against a shorthanded Hornets team, having Cunningham back and seeing multiple players step up is a good sign. Do you think this game is proof the Pistons are starting to build some real chemistry, or do they still have too many inconsistencies to trust?
