The Pistons’ Shooting Problem: A Blueprint for a Floor-Spacing Fix
The Detroit Pistons are currently operating at a significant disadvantage, and it’s not a lack of effort. It’s a fundamental flaw in roster construction: a severe shortage of players who consistently prioritize and seek three-point opportunities. While Duncan Robinson provides a vital spark, Detroit’s offensive gravity hinges too heavily on a single player. The contrast with a team like the Phoenix Suns, where multiple players actively spread the floor, is stark – and increasingly detrimental to the Pistons’ competitive prospects.
This isn’t simply about three-point percentage; it’s about shot selection. A player shooting 38% from three is valuable, but a player who takes 75% of their shots from beyond the arc, even at 35%, fundamentally alters a defense’s approach.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: A Deep Dive into Detroit’s Shot Distribution
Looking at the Pistons’ current rotation, the disparity is glaring. Here’s a breakdown of field goal attempt percentage from three-point range, ranked by minutes played:
- Cade Cunningham – 30%
- Duncan Robinson – 78%
- Jalen Duren – 0%
- Tobias Harris – 37%
- Ausar Thompson – 6%
- Isaiah Stewart – 32%
- Ron Holland – 36%
- Caris LeVert – 48%
- Javonte Green – 56%
- Jaden Ivey – 52%
- Daniss Jenkins – 40%
After Robinson, the next closest is Javonte Green at 56%. This isn’t a roster built to stretch the floor. It’s a roster that, too often, clogs the paint and relies on isolation plays – a recipe for offensive stagnation in the modern NBA.
Phoenix as a Case Study: The Power of Floor Spacers
Contrast this with the Suns, who actively prioritize three-point shooting. Their top five players in minutes played demonstrate this commitment:
- Devin Booker – 30%
- Dillon Brooks – 41%
- Grayson Allen – 67%
- Royce O’Neale – 81%
- Collin Gillespie – 64%
Three players – Allen, O’Neale, and Gillespie – would instantly become top-three three-point shooters on the Pistons. This isn’t a coincidence. The Suns’ offensive system is predicated on creating driving lanes and open looks through constant perimeter threats. Watch how Grayson Allen and Collin Gillespie instinctively fill the corners in transition, providing immediate passing options.
This proactive spacing isn’t just about making shots; it’s about forcing the defense to respect the perimeter, opening up opportunities for cutters and drivers. The Pistons frequently lack this crucial element, allowing defenses to collapse and stifle offensive flow.
Beyond Percentage: The “Want To” Factor
The Pistons’ issue isn’t solely about finding players who can shoot; it’s about finding players who want to shoot. Malik Beasley, for example, took 71% of his shots from three last season. That’s a player who actively seeks out and prioritizes the three-point shot. Detroit needs to identify and acquire players with a similar mindset. Simply adding a player with a 38% three-point percentage isn’t enough; they need to be a volume shooter who consistently looks for the open look.
The Trade Deadline Imperative
Trajan Langdon faces a critical decision at the trade deadline. Addressing this shooting deficiency isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. The Pistons need to target players who fit this profile – players who are comfortable taking a high volume of three-pointers and possess the basketball IQ to recognize and exploit open looks. A player who can consistently knock down open threes will dramatically improve Detroit’s offensive efficiency and create more opportunities for Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren to thrive.
The Pistons’ future success hinges on their ability to adapt to the modern NBA’s emphasis on floor spacing and three-point shooting. Ignoring this fundamental need will only prolong their struggles and limit their potential. The time to prioritize shooters is now.
What kind of player do you think the Pistons should target at the trade deadline to address their shooting woes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
