Cade Cunningham credited teammate Ausar Thompson for inspiring his defensive commitment after the Detroit Pistons routed the Charlotte Hornets 124-91 on November 2. The win extended Detroit's streak to three games and cemented their spot atop the NBA's defensive rankings.
Cunningham explained his defensive mindset after a dominant performance against Charlotte. He finished with 33 points, seven assists, and five steals, but focused on Thompson's influence. "AT is the influence. We have the best in the world right there," Cunningham said. "I think watching him and the way he does it, obviously, he makes it look a lot easier than it is for a lot of people, me included. You don't want to leave him hanging on that."
The star guard added that he's consciously using his athleticism to help the team's defense. His effort shows in the stats. Over the Pistons' last seven games, Cunningham has generated 11 steals and eight blocks.
Thompson's defensive reputation is well-earned. The 2023 draft pick was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team last season and won Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month twice. His tenacity has become contagious.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised the collective buy-in after the Charlotte victory. "When we're defending at the level that we're capable of defending, and the shots are going, we're going to be a tough out," Bickerstaff told reporters. He highlighted the team's identity of being aggressive and disruptive.
The numbers back up the talk. Detroit forced 25 turnovers and racked up 15 steals against the Hornets. Their defensive rating of 102.4 is currently the best in the league.
The Pistons are on a roll. Their last five games show a 4-1 record (WWWLW), with wins over the Hornets, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat. Their only loss in that stretch came against the New York Knicks on October 27.
The offense has been just as potent as the defense. Against Charlotte, the team shot 57.3% from the field and a blistering 48.6% from three-point range. They dished out 30 assists on 47 made baskets.
Duncan Robinson led the three-point barrage with 24 points, hitting 6-of-9 from deep. Ausar Thompson added 14 points, showing his offensive development. Paul Reed and Ron Hon Holland each contributed 11 points.
Detroit's momentum faces a quick test. They host the Philadelphia 76ers at home on November 4, looking to avenge an early-season loss. Maintaining their defensive intensity will be the key.
The team's strong start, built on a 4-1 run in their last five, has them positioned well. Fans can track the upcoming challenge on our schedule page. If the Pistons keep defending and shooting at this level, they will be a difficult opponent for anyone.
