Coming into the season, Jaden Ivey’s play was viewed as the answer to several of the Detroit Pistons’ roster questions. With Dennis Schröder no longer in the picture, many believed Ivey could fill the secondary ball-handler role behind Cade Cunningham . Others hoped his return would help offset lingering concerns about the team’s outside shooting, mainly after Duncan Robinson emerged as the lone notable addition in that area.
There’s no denying Ivey’s talent. But what has his 11-game sample actually shown? And as his conditioning and timing continue to improve, should the Pistons view him as a foundational piece—or a potential trade chip? Let’s dive in.
Jaden Ivey’s Play Shows Why Patience Matters For the Pistons
Ivey’s Offense Shows Promise
Offensively, the tools that made Ivey such an intriguing piece for the Pistons are still evident. Before last season’s injury, he was averaging 17.6 points per game while shooting 46 percent from the field and 40 percent from three—numbers that reflected his growing comfort and confidence.
Since returning, the shooting has been predictably uneven. Ivey is connecting on 44 percent of his shots overall, but his three-point percentage has dipped to 33 percent as he works his way back into rhythm.
Even so, the offensive signs have been encouraging. The downhill burst that defined Ivey’s game is beginning to resurface, and with it, his ability to finish through contact and convert rugged looks in the paint. As his legs and timing return, efficiency should follow.
Effort Above All
Defensively, Ivey has been a pleasant surprise. He’s continued to show the growth that began to emerge before his injury, giving the Pistons another capable perimeter defender as they build a defensive identity that has fueled their rise in the Eastern Conference .
When your offense is still rounding into form, defensive intensity and effort become non-negotiable , and Ivey has embraced that role. His willingness to compete on the ball, fight through screens, and use his athleticism has added real value, hinting at a two-way ceiling that becomes even more intriguing once he’s fully healthy.
There are still the occasional lapses—moments where his focus wanes, and opponents capitalize—but the overall effort and aggression are encouraging. If that consistency continues to improve, Ivey’s defensive growth could become just as important as his offensive development.
Trade or Stay With Pistons?
There’s no denying Ivey’s talent or his potential to be special. As he continues to round into form, his impact has been noticeable and meaningful.
With the Pistons’ emergence, trade speculation is inevitable , but there’s value in letting this roster continue to grow together. The current formula is working, and since his return, Ivey has been a key part of that success. For now, patience may be the best move.
The Last Word
In a small but telling sample, Jaden Ivey’s play has reminded the Detroit Pistons why they believed in him. The shooting efficiency is still coming around, but the burst, paint pressure, and growing comfort offensively are evident. More importantly, his defensive effort and competitiveness have been vital to a team built on defense.
With the Pistons winning and the roster beginning to take shape, Ivey’s two-way growth makes a strong case for patience. Rather than reshaping what’s working, letting Ivey grow within this core best serves both the present and future.
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