Some Detroit Pistons fans were disappointed with the franchise after a relatively quiet trade deadline.
The team made only one move: turning Jaden Ivey into Kevin Huerter. On paper, Huerter could alleviate Detroit's shooting issues, but many were hoping for a higher-profile addition. These concerns proved right as he struggled immensely after joining the Pistons. In his first 14 games after the move, Huerter shot 19.1% from three, averaging 6.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 17.2 minutes per game.
This understandably raised questions. Huerter didn't seem up to the task of solving the Pistons' shooting woes.
Over the last week, however, things have significantly improved for the shooting guard. Playing a larger role amid Detroit's backcourt injuries, including to Cade Cunningham, Huerter has started to put it all together.
Kevin Huerter Finally Proving His Worth
In the last five games, all without Cunningham, the veteran shooting guard is averaging 13 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.4 steals in 26.8 minutes per game. Most importantly, he is hitting 50% of his field-goal attempts and 36% of his threes. As a result, the Pistons have won his minutes in these games by a total of 25 points.
While those numbers may not jump off the screen at first, they are perfectly fine for what the Pistons need out of Huerter. Detroit is in desperate need of more perimeter threats on offense, especially ones who can play off the ball.
The Pistons don't have enough shooters who can run plays, making their offense predictable. It also cramps their spacing, making things difficult for the likes of Cunningham and Jalen Duren.
If Huerter continues to hit shots, it opens up everything else for the Pistons' offense. The best part is, Huerter is more than just a three-point shooter. He can put the ball on the floor and make good decisions. When defenses react to him, he can take a few dribbles, keep the ball moving, or make a play. His six-assist effort against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night is not a surprise, and Huerter can repeat that when given the opportunity.
Huerter played a team-high 38 minutes in Oklahoma City. The Pistons were especially short-handed, resting multiple starters, giving the 27-year-old a larger opportunity.
When the Pistons are fully healthy, Huerter won't have the space to explore as he did against the Thunder. However, as long as he can continue to take and make shots at a respectable level, he will get chances in the rest of the regular season and the playoffs.
Considering where he was after his first month in Detroit, that is a great place to be for Huerter.