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Pistons guard is tied with the three-time NBA MVP as the preseason league leader

Pistons guard is tied with the three-time NBA MVP as the preseason league leader

Heading into this season, Jaden Ivey was a name that many had circled for the Detroit Pistons. After a rocky start to his career, it’s time for the organization to make a long-term decision on him. As the preseason continues, the former No. 5 pick is showing that he should be considered a key part of the core.

When it comes to the Pistons’ outstanding preseason performances, Ivey is at the top of the list. Head coach JB Bickerstaff’s system appears to have weakened the young guard, as he has had several strong performances. Not only does Ivey shoot the ball at an impressive rate, but he has also shown glimpses of an improved three-point shot.

Jaden Ivey faces the Nuggets.

November 20, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey (23) dribbles defended by Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) during the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images / Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

As the preseason slowly comes to a close, Ivey finds himself in the top tier of the PPG. His 18.3 points per game are on par with reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. The only players who average more points than the Pistons guard are Lauri Markkanen, LaMelo Ball and Jalen Brunson.

Aside from Wednesday, when he only played eight minutes, Ivey has broken double figures in every Pistons preseason game. His best result came in the opening game against the Milwaukee Bucks when he scored 22 points on 75% shooting from the field. Ivey had another strong performance against the Golden State Warriors over the weekend, scoring 19 points on 7-for-10 shooting.

The most impressive thing about Ivey’s game is that he was able to thrive alongside Cade Cunningham. There were doubts about the coexistence of the two, but these are slowly being dispelled.

Bickerstaff is highly valued by several members of the Pistons core and his offensive scheme seems to be working well for Ivey. If he can carry that momentum into the regular season, it could lead to a career year for the young guard.