UPDATE: A major setback for the Detroit Pistons as guard Jaden Ivey will undergo knee surgery, sidelining him for the next four weeks, the team announced just hours ago. This news follows a troubling preseason where discomfort in his knee flared up after just one game.
Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff confirmed that the injury wasn’t caused by a specific play but was a gradual development. “It was something that was developing over his work,” Bickerstaff stated before the Pistons’ final preseason game against the Washington Wizards. “We took precautions, and then the medical team did their assessments and made the decision that ultimately led us to where we are today.”
Ivey, who was the fifth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, had shown promising signs during his rookie season, averaging 17.6 points per game and shooting 41 percent from beyond the arc before sustaining a left fibula injury that kept him out for the last 49 games of the previous season. His latest knee issue raises concerns about his long-term health, especially considering his explosive playing style.
In the wake of Ivey’s injury, the Pistons have acquired veteran guard Dennis Schroder to serve as a backup point guard. Bickerstaff expressed confidence in guards Marcus Sasser and two-way player Daniss Jenkins to step up during Ivey’s absence. Additionally, third-year forward Ausar Thompson is expected to take on a larger role as a primary facilitator when All-NBA guard Cade Cunningham rests.
The Pistons are prioritizing a careful recovery for Ivey, especially with the looming October 20 deadline for rookie-scale extensions. Bickerstaff emphasized the importance of not rushing Ivey back into action, stating, “Our priority is to do what’s right by our guys, and never put them in a position where we feel like we have to rush them back.”
As the Pistons navigate this challenging period, fans are left wondering how Ivey’s absence will impact the team’s performance in the upcoming season. With the NBA season on the horizon, all eyes will be on how the Pistons adjust and who will emerge as key contributors in Ivey’s stead.
This developing story will continue to unfold, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.
