Detroit Pistons: 2018-19 player grades for Andre Drummond

Final grade

Andre Drummond didn’t make the NBA All-Star Game this season, like he did in 2016 and 2018, but this may have been his best season in the league.

He improved his production and expanded his game offensively, and was more of a force defensively. He also helped get the Pistons back into the playoffs. If Griffin hadn’t gotten hurt at the worst time, Detroit may have been able to win its first postseason game since 2008.

Even if Griffin was 100 percent, however, Drummond still should’ve played better in the playoffs.

There’s nothing wrong with knowing one’s strengths and sticking to them. So while it would be nice if Drummond continued to work on his long range shooting and became a threat from 3-point territory, it’s perfectly OK if he doesn’t — so long as he doesn’t shoot too many.

Drummond is a rebounder, a defender and a scorer who thrives close to the basket. When he focuses on that and doesn’t let the scoreboard, an annoying opponent, or an unwarranted whistle get into his head, he is one of the best players in the NBA. He continued to show it this season.

Grade: A-