Embracing the 3-Point Shot
The Orlando Magic ranked No. 1 in 3-point field goals made per game in all five of Stan Van Gundy’s seasons as head coach. This played a major role in the Magic reaching the NBA Finals in 2009 and the Eastern Conference Finals in 2010.
Since Josh Smith’s departure, the value of the 3-point shot has increased exponentially in Detroit.
The Detroit Pistons are averaging 13.2 3-point field goals made per game since Smith was waived. They’ve made at least 10 shots from beyond the arc in every one of those outings.
That includes a franchise-record 17 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The @DetroitPistons set their franchise record for 3PM (17) on Sunday. Here's their record 3PT shot chart: pic.twitter.com/nTk187eCwn
— NBA.com/Stats (@nbastats) December 29, 2014
LeBron James and Kevin Love both played in excess of 30 minutes in that game.
Van Gundy, the head coach and president of basketball operations, made a concerted effort to improve Detroit’s 3-point shooting from a season ago. After ranking No. 26 in 3-point field goals made and No. 29 in 3-point field goal percentage in 2013-14, that was a necessary target.
Acquisitions such as Caron Butler, Jodie Meeks and Anthony Tolliver have all helped Detroit space the floor.
If the Pistons remain committed to the 3-ball, they will continue to win games.
Next: A Lethal Combination