Detroit Pistons: Top 10 moments from 2017-18 NBA season

8. Luke Kennard’s night in Memphis

The Pistons took a gamble with Luke Kennard in the 2017 NBA Draft, taking the sharpshooting guard from Duke with the 12th overall pick. Despite criticism of the selection and other talented players still available in the draft pool, the Pistons took Kennard and he made the best of his season in Detroit.

Playing limited minutes early on and becoming acquainted with the fast-paced NBA style, Kennard proved to be more than just a catch-and-shoot player and did more than spot up for Stan Van Gundy in his rookie year. He received the bulk of his minutes in the second half of the season and played his best basketball in the final games down the stretch.

The best game for Kennard came on the road against the Memphis Grizzlies. Averaging 20.3 points per game in his final three games to go along with 53.9 percent shooting from the field, 5.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.3 steals, Kennard erupted in the FedExForum on April 8 to further solidify his potential.

Having one of his better shooting games, if not his best, Kennard went 6-for-12 from the field but connected on all four of his 3-pointers to finish with 18 points. Moving forward, Kennard should be able to play his way into a permanent starting role to provide an impact from beyond the arc, helping the Pistons further adapt to the new NBA.

With a solid second year and offseason in Las Vegas to hone in on his skills, Kennard will be able to play for many years to come in the NBA with the threat of the 3-point basket in his arsenal. Despite the uncertainty for rookie, the Pistons may have found a diamond in the rough by taking the gamble.