New Pistons Head Coach Monty Williams Prioritizes Defense and Development
It’s only the beginning of training camp, but new Detroit Pistons head coach Monty Williams has already made it clear what he expects from his team this season. With the Pistons coming off a dismal performance last season, Williams is emphasizing defense and development as the key factors in shaping the team’s rotation.
In a recent interview following a morning practice, Williams admitted that the backup big man position is still up for grabs between James Wiseman and Marvin Bagley. Williams acknowledged that both players have talent and the ability to contribute, making it a tough decision. However, he made it clear that he wants to see who steps up and earns the spot.
This battle for the backup spot also suggests that Isaiah Stewart is the frontrunner for the starting power forward position. Williams appears to have confidence in Stewart’s defensive abilities and sees him as a valuable floor spacer. The frontcourt is a point of focus for the Pistons, and sorting out the pieces will be crucial for the team’s success.
While many assumed that the starting lineup would be Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Bojan Bogdanović, Stewart, and Jalen Duren, Williams’ emphasis on defense has raised questions. Williams believes that the team can improve its ability to guard the ball and considers defense the top priority. This raises the possibility of surprises in the starting lineup, as players who excel defensively could replace Bogdanović and Ivey.
Unfortunately, Isaiah Livers suffered an ankle sprain and will be sidelined for some time. Williams had plans to include Livers in the rotation, praising his versatility and smart play on both ends of the court. Livers’ injury has caused some uncertainty in the rotation, and Williams is eager to get him back on the court once he is fully recovered.
With all these factors in mind, Williams is working to determine the best rotation for the team. There may be opportunities for players like Ausar Thompson and Joe Harris to make an impact, depending on the lineup choices. Williams is considering various scenarios, including staggering minutes for Stewart and Duren, utilizing a small second unit, and potentially altering the starting lineup to prioritize defense and incorporate Thompson.
As training camp progresses, Williams and his coaching staff will continue to assess the players’ performance and make decisions accordingly. The emphasis on defense and the importance of player development will shape the final rotation. While there are still many unknowns, the picture is becoming clearer with each passing day.
(Photo of James Wiseman: Logan Riely / NBAE via Getty Images)