The Detroit Pistons opened their preseason schedule with a 128-112 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum Monday night. Cade Cunningham looked as if he were already in mid-season form — scoring in a variety of ways — from step-back triples to contested running floaters.

Cunningham’s best moment occurred with 1:32 left in the second quarter. He scored on an alley-oop attempt from Tobias Harris (13 points and three rebounds), catching the ball in mid-air and finishing with an acrobatic layup instead of a dunk.

The All-NBA guard scored 11 of his game-high 20 points during the second quarter, to go along with four assists, three rebounds and two steals in 19 minutes. Cunningham played a significant role in the Pistons outscoring the Grizzlies 50-22 during the period.

Jaden Ivey made his long-awaited return from the broken left fibula he sustained in January. His return meant a great deal to the team, especially since he was starting alongside Cunningham.

After a slow start, Ivey’s contributions in the second period played a significant role in Detroit’s dominance, where he scored all seven of his points. He closed the period with an And-1 basket that showcased his signature speed and quickness.

“It’s great for everybody,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “For him, most importantly, to be able to be back on the court doing the things that he loves to do, but also him being back with his teammates — he missed them, they missed him, being in the fight with him and he missed that as well,.

“First and foremost, it’s great that he’s healthy, just for him individually, but he means so much to the spirit of this team, so it’ll be great to have him out there.”

In addition to Ivey, Isaiah Stewart also returned to the lineup after finishing last season sidelined due to a knee injury. He started at center in place of Jalen Duren, who was out due to hamstring tightness. Duren will be day-to-day moving forward. Stewart played 18 minutes, posting 12 points, four rebounds and a block.

Before going on an explosive run during the second quarter, the Pistons had a dreadful start. They committed nine of their 22 turnovers in the first quarter. The Grizzlies capitalized on Detroit’s mistakes by scoring in transition. They also had a sizzling start from behind the arc by shooting 9-of-11.

Ty Jerome and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope contributed to Memphis’ fast start. They scored 16 and 15 points, respectively. The Grizzlies were without their All-Star duo of Ja Morant (sprained ankle) and Jaren Jackson Jr. (toe injury).

Observations vs. Grizzliess

Putting the ball in A.T.’s hands: Ausar Thompson’s playmaking helped the Pistons’ offense find a rhythm after a slow start. His best moment facilitating the ball came at the 7:02 mark of the second quarter when he connected with Cunningham on a fastbreak for an And-1 layup. The basket accounted for one of Thompson’s three assists.

Cleaning the glass with P. Reed: Paul Reed showcased why the Pistons emphasized re-signing him during the offseason. He played 17 minutes and led the team with 12 rebounds. He also added a pair of blocks on the defensive end.

An impressive debut for Lanier: Rookie prospect Chaz Lanier had an exceptional performance during his NBA preseason debut. The Tennessee native finished with 11 points on 3-of-5 shooting from behind the arc.

Double-double for Mr. Smith: Two-way prospect Tolu Smith played 12 minutes against the Grizzlies, producing one of the best performances of the night. He finished the game with a double-double: 11 points, 11 rebounds, and a block.

Up next

The Pistons will continue their preseason schedule on Thursday night in a road contest against the Milwaukee Bucks. Tip-off is slated for 8 p.m. at Fiserv Forum.

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