3 trends the Detroit Pistons can build on in 2018

3. Focusing on defense opens up many options

Stan Van Gundy is an advocate for defense. This year his team is all in on defense and the focus is paying off in the win column.

Going into the season everyone expected Avery Bradley to be a premier defender. The pleasant surprise for Detroit fans is that Bradley is not alone when it comes to being a defensive nuisance to other teams.

Making the defense the cornerstone the team builds around has opened up offensive opportunities for the Pistons as well. During Bradley’s absence, people have stepped up to fill the defensive hole.

Friday night against the New York Knicks, Andre Drummond‘s block led to an exciting offensive sequence that ended with Ish Smith adding points late in the game.

Defense is a team effort in Motown. Everyone is stepping up blocking shots and getting the job done. Drummond praised Reggie Bullock‘s defense after the Pistons defeated the Knicks 104-101 Friday.

"“Reggie’s a hell of a defender, just like Avery [Bradley],” said Pistons center Andre Drummond. “He’s kind of the same player, very, very gritty and gets down and dirty. He’s ready to play at all times.”"

Finding ways to capitalize on turnovers has led to the Detroit Pistons winning several games this season. Stan Van Gundy talked about the impact of the defense after defeating the Knicks.

"“Down four, under 2 minutes, then to close it out the way we did – really, really good,” Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy said."

The focus and defensive mindset give the Pistons a chance to win games they couldn’t win last year.