The Pistons have found their cruising speed

An unrecognizable day before in PhoenixThe Pistons wanted to redeem themselves in Golden State. However, the task promised to be difficult for the leaders of the Eastern Conference, who arrived at the Chase Center less than twenty-four hours after the loss in Arizona.

Before the meeting, however, JB Bickerstaff’s message was very simple: “We weren’t good enough last night in the first half. We can’t let our guard down like that. I expect us to be better tonight, regardless of the circumstances.”

His players proved him right. They had their best start of the season, scoring 45 points in the first quarter on 76% shooting, 15 assists and 19 points.

The Warriors’ defense alternated between man and zone defense, but the Pistons’ altruism and intensity made the difference. “We played at the right pace”greeted JB Bickerstaff. “We moved the ball, we executed the game plan the right way. I’m happy with the way we responded tonight, even though Golden State put us in danger late in the game.”

Way ahead of the Eastern Conference two weeks before the All-Star Game, the Pistons could continue their dream start to the season. Like the Thunder, Michigan’s players seem much more mature than their young age might suggest. A few difficult years gave way to an infectious rigor and thirst for victory.

Trailing 8-4 after Moses Moody’s 3-pointer after a defensive error, Cade Cunningham was furious. During the ensuing timeout, the Pistons said things to each other. Not with hostility, but with kindness. Since the beginning of the season, they have developed a certain standard and their leader immediately corrected things after the defeat in Phoenix.

Since the start of the season, the Pistons have lost two games in a row just twice, in late November and late December. It says a lot about their mental strength.

“It’s been a constant since the beginning of the season and it’s one of the reasons why we’re in the position we’re in today.” their coach explained. “We stay in the present moment. When you let your emotions take over, your performance follows those ups and downs. We don’t worry about what happened the day before, we move forward trying to maintain a certain emotional balance.”

You “Detroit Basketball”

In many ways, this Detroit team is a reflection of Cade Cunningham. Right now the best passer in the leaguehe is the metronome. You rarely see him complaining to the referees or bursting with joy: he is surgical in the way he carries himself and plays. His build also allows him to hunt for favorable matchups. He sets the tone, and Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson and Isaiah Stewart fit in behind him.

Their defense is rough and does not leave anything easy to the opponent. Passes are disputed, access to the circle is difficult. On the other side of the field, they also impose their structure. It’s Detroit Basketball 2.0.

The arrival of Duncan Robinson this summer has also allowed them to add more movement to their attack. Opposing defenses have to pay special attention to him and, when he has a hot hand like he did last night, all of his teammates benefit.

“We want him to be extremely aggressive. Whether it’s catch-and-shoot opportunities or attacking from close, he has the green light to put opposition defenses under pressure.described by JB Bickerstaff. “When he plays like that and hits his shots, he adds an extra spark to our offense. Opponents have to play us differently. Not only does it give him opportunities, but it opens up the game for everyone.”

With six losses less than the Knicks, second in the East, and a formula that works both at home (18-5) and on the road (16-7), the Pistons are heading straight for home-court advantage throughout the playoffs in their conference. They’ll have to be counted on in the spring, but their coach doesn’t want to plan ahead.

“Our focus is always on the present moment. We don’t look beyond the next match.” said JB Bickerstaff to protect his players. “The next match will be a new and unique challenge, that’s all we’re interested in.”

Comments collected in San Francisco.