Pistons Coach Applauds Backcourt for Toughness

Monty Williams praises Pistons guards Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey

Heading into their matchup with the Miami Heat Friday, the Detroit Pistons had an array of names on their injury report. Among those was Cade Cunningham, who was a gametime decision. Despite being listed on the report, the former No. 1 pick ended up giving it a go against the Heat. 

Since the All-Star break, Cunningham has strung together countless impressive performances. However, that came to an end in the loss to Miami. Cunningham finished with 11 points, six rebounds, and nine assists on 5-for-15 shooting. 

After the game, Pistons coach Monty Williams was asked if Cunningham was 100% going into this matchup. He said the star guard is dealing with nagging injuries, as every player is at this point in the year. That said, he applauded Cunningham and Jaden Ivey for sticking it out while battling some injuries. 

"I thought he was OK," Williams said. "He’s dealing with some soreness but everyone is dealing with it this time of year. I’m proud of (Ivey), he rolled his ankle and stayed in there. I applaud those guys for fighting through the soreness."

Ivey also had some struggles against the Heat, shooting 3-for-14. He ended the night with 14 points, three rebounds, and nine assists. 

With both guards not at their best, the Pistons needed production from elsewhere against Miami. Simone Fontecchio ended up being the one to step up, posting his fourth 20-point game of the year. Jalen Duren also did his part, finishing with a double-double (15 points, 17 rebounds). 

Seeing that both guards suited up despite not being 100% is a testament to the team's character. Even though they are now officially out of playoff contention, they still view these final weeks as important and want to be on the floor.