Detroit Pistons: Evaluating Andre Drummond’s Development

Offensive Arsenal

Andre Drummond entered the NBA with a fair reputation as an erratic offensive option. He’s an outstanding athlete, but lacked the necessary fundamentals to be viewed as anything but an on-and-off contributor.

That’s changed in 2015-16.

Beyond Greg Monroe leaving and Drummond getting more touches is a skill set that has been only recently developed. He still struggles in some areas, but Drummond has acquired basic skills that help him in the utilization of his athletic abilities.

His crafty ball-handling, paralyzing drop step, and lightning-quick spin move are prime examples of that development.

The drop step has become a staple of Drummond’s game.

Prior to 2015-16, Drummond wasn’t facing up or confidently dribbling between his legs, let alone attacking off the bounce from 16 feet and beyond. They weren’t entirely foreign skills, but the utilization and consistency of both left something to be desired.

With a constantly improving grasp on how to put those skills to use, Drummond is facing up and emerging as an offensive standout.

The fact that Drummond can take his man off the bounce helps balance out some of his remaining weaknesses.

Next: Pure Dominance