From the first name announced on opening night to the reserves at the end of the bench, the Detroit Pistons have built a roster rooted in connection and readiness. This is a team where no one hands out minutes — players earn them. At any moment, the coaching staff can tap them to step in.
The NBA is overflowing with talent, but talent alone doesn’t guarantee opportunity. In Detroit, depth is both a luxury and a challenge . On most nights, this team is capable of going 11 to 12 deep. The reality, however, is that not everyone gets the chance to show it.
As we wrap up our All-Star break grades , it’s time to shift the spotlight. Not to the headliners — but to the players waiting in the wings. How have they handled limited opportunities? How ready are they if their moment comes? Let’s take a closer look.
Pistons Reserves Showing Readiness When Minutes Arrive
Pistons Reserve Scorer Ready When Called
There may not be a player more deserving of steady minutes than Marcus Sasser . In a crowded backcourt, he’s remained the ultimate professional — ready whenever his number is called .
That readiness showed on December 30 against the Lakers, when he stepped in for 24 minutes and scored 19 points. He followed it up with 18 against the Heat on New Year’s Day, proving he can produce when given the opportunity.
He may not get a consistent run, but there’s no drop-off when he plays. Just instant offense and steady confidence — exactly what this Pistons team needs from its reserves.
Grade: B-
Pistons Reserve Sharpshooter Searching for Rhythm
Kevin Huerter arrived with intrigue after the Pistons included him in the Jaden Ivey trade. For some, he represents the floor-spacing boost Detroit’s bench has needed. For others, his 31% three-point shooting prior to the deal raised fair questions.
Through four games with the Pistons, the returns have been mixed. He’s flashed the secondary playmaking and off-ball movement that make him a logical fit, but the three-point shot is still trying to find its rhythm. He knocked down his first triple as a Piston against the Raptors — a small but encouraging step.
So far, the impact has been steady but unspectacular . Not a move that shifts the championship conversation, but not one you dismiss either. The swing skill remains the shot.
Grade: C
Marksman Awaiting His Moment
When the Pistons drafted Chaz Lanier , the appeal was clear : shooting. The consistency hasn’t shown up yet, but like Sasser, he’s fighting for minutes in a crowded backcourt.
There have been flashes. An eight-point outing against the Bulls, where he knocked down two threes. Seven points in just five minutes during the 118–80 win over the Knicks. Small samples — but encouraging ones.
Lanier doesn’t lack confidence, and that matters for a young shooter. The continued split between Detroit and the G-League should keep him sharp. The foundation is there — now it’s about opportunity and growth.
Grade: C
Talent Developing Behind the Scenes
Bobi Klintman’s season has been more about growth than numbers. The young forward has shown flashes of the versatility that intrigued the Pistons — floor spacing, transition playmaking, and defensive activity — while adjusting to the NBA’s physicality.
The production isn’t eye-catching yet, but the comfort level and confidence are trending upward. For Klintman, this has been another year of building a foundation.
Grade: C-
The Last Word
As the All-Star break continues, the spotlight naturally shines on the rotation regulars. But the true strength of this Detroit Pistons roster lies in the players behind them — the reserves staying ready without guaranteed minutes. From veterans adjusting to new roles to young prospects building their foundation, each has contributed in ways that don’t always show up in the box score.
Not every move has been a home run. Not every development arc is ahead of schedule. But the common thread is readiness. When called upon, this group has shown there’s no drop-off in professionalism or effort. And as the season pushes forward, that depth — tested, patient, and prepared could become one of Detroit’s quiet advantages down the stretch.
Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images