Veteran guard Caris LeVert is enduring the toughest statistical season of his NBA career after signing a two-year, $28.9 million deal with the Detroit Pistons last summer. The 31-year-old is averaging career lows of 7.5 points, 19.5 minutes and 41.8% shooting, and is on pace to complete a season without a single start for the first time since entering the league in 2016.
LeVert told The Detroit News that limited minutes have been the year’s most frustrating element. A series of health setbacks, including preseason surgery on his right wrist, subsequent knee trouble and a six-week bout with vertigo, have complicated his campaign. “This year’s been kinda weird for me, but I feel really good right now,” he said, noting a renewed focus on stretching, sleep and diet. Despite personal struggles, LeVert emphasized his leadership role on the young roster, adding that Detroit “controls our own destiny” down the stretch.
Jones wins G League Player of the Month
Pistons two-way forward Isaac Jones captured NBA G League Player of the Month honors for March after averaging 29.7 points and 10.1 rebounds on 68.4% shooting with the Motor City Cruise. The second-year pro began the season with Sacramento, was claimed off waivers by Detroit in November, waived in early February and re-signed to a two-way contract one week later.
First Central Division title since 2008
Detroit clinched its first Central Division crown in 16 years, an accomplishment that head coach J.B. Bickerstaff said reflects the roster’s growth. “You take pride in understanding how hard it is to do any of those things in this league,” Bickerstaff told The Detroit Free Press, adding that the milestone is “a big deal for our guys and this organization.”
Bickerstaff comments on Ivey’s release
Bickerstaff also addressed the recent release of former Pistons guard Jaden Ivey, traded to Chicago in February and waived this week for conduct detrimental to the team. Having coached Ivey for a season-and-a-half, Bickerstaff cited the player’s injuries and on-court struggles as challenges and praised the NBA’s inclusive culture, stating the league “should be an environment that supports [players] and gives people the opportunity to be the best version of themselves.”
The Pistons enter the season’s final weeks focused on playoff positioning while leaning on veteran guidance, emerging G League talent and the momentum of a long-awaited division championship.
Source: Hoops Rumors
