The Detroit Pistons NEED More Of This NOW!
Detroit, MI – The Detroit Pistons were in need of two things to stop a two game losing streak.
One was a fast start to quarter #1, and then higher contributions from new addition John Collins. They received both while racing out to a 122-111 win over the Washington Wizards, led by Collins’ 24 point and 10 rebound double-double.
Collins scored 15 points and 4 rebounds (6/8 FG) to bolster a fast start and a 68-58 first half lead. He attacked the paint with intention to score or at least draw a foul. Something the Pistons big men haven’t been as good at to start the year.
They needed all the help possible with Anthony Davis pouring in 44 points, and rookie AJ Dybantsa added 21. The two dazzled all night with Dybantsa leaving a great first impression including veteran level poise.
More John Collins Is Good John Collins
Since Jalen Duren has gone down, so had the play of Collins and the Pistons paint numbers. He wasn’t expected to be as effective as his Atlanta Hawks days. But looking at the last 4 seasons, it’s clear the struggle was real based on expectations.
From 2022-2026 he averaged 14.7 points, 7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. He also chipped in .9 blocks and .7 steals showing defensive energy. But what really made Collins an attractive target was his efficiency. He had shooting splits of 53%FG/36.3%3PT/79.8%FT.
Before this breakout game Collins was averaging just 9.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and .6 assists. And his efficiency numbers painted an even worse picture including a >6% FG dip, with just 34% from three and an abysmal 55% free throw shooting.
That wont make the cut, and it’s full impact was felt during the Pistons two-game losing streak to the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers.
To be fair, the Pistons have needed Collins to carry a bigger load in the paint during Duren’s absence. But just as important, they will need Collins’ potential when their all-star big returns.
Last year’s team had a gritty front court that included Isaiah Stewart and Tobias Harris, in addition to Duren. The team’s front office, by design, has tasked Paul Reed and John Collins with forming a top NBA front court along with Duren.
And not just every few games, but bringing the effort every single night. The Pistons aren’t in a position to allow Collins to passively fit. The Pistons rely on his versatile skill set, which brings high efficiency, energy, and physicality with a dash of erratic emotion. For reference see the dust-up between Collins and Devin Booker versus the Phoenix Suns during preseason.
Of course this is a big ask of Collins, but it wouldn’t be put on his plate if Pistons PBO Trajan Langdon didn’t think he was a capable.
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Photo Credit: Brandon Dent – Woodward Sports Network
