When the Detroit Pistons acquired Kevin Huerter at the trade deadline, the move was met with skepticism. Some questioned what it meant for Jaden Ivey’s long-term ceiling, while others viewed Huerter’s recent struggles as a sign of a player already defined.
As Huerter has settled into Detroit’s system, his production has begun to climb. Over his last five games, he’s averaging 11.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.8 steals while shooting an efficient 52.2 percent from the field. The three-point shot hasn’t fully followed (26.3 percent), but flashes—such as his four makes on Thursday—offer a glimpse of what he can provide.
With the regular season winding down, building Huerter’s confidence becomes increasingly important. For a team that thrives in the paint and imposes its will inside, consistent perimeter shooting is the missing layer. The question now becomes: how can Huerter maximize his role while unlocking the skillset that made him a valuable addition? Let’s dive in.
Pistons Trusting Huerter More as Production Matches Opportunity
More Than a Shooter
Like Duncan Robinson, Huerter is often labeled strictly as a shooter—but his game offers more than that. While his perimeter scoring draws attention, Huerter has quietly impacted the game in multiple areas on both ends.
With an increased opportunity, he’s shown an ability to attack the lane and finish, adding another layer to Detroit’s offense. His off-ball movement also stands out, creating spacing and forcing defenses to stay engaged beyond the arc.
Defensively, Huerter brings a level of activity that separates him from similar archetypes. His quick hands generate deflections, and his positioning allows him to hold up in key moments. While players like Robinson are often targeted, Huerter has proven capable of holding his own—and even creating stops when needed.
Pistons’ Trust in Huerter Is Fueling His Confidence
When Huerter found himself out of the rotation just after the All-Star break, the skepticism surrounding the trade only grew louder. It also created uncertainty around his confidence as he worked to regain his rhythm.
Recognizing the value Huerter brings, coach J.B. Bickerstaff has leaned into him more—and the results are starting to show. While the three-point shot remains a work in progress, Huerter’s ability to simply play within the flow of the game has stood out. His decision-making and willingness to make the right play have become just as impactful as any perimeter shot he takes.
The Last Word
The Detroit Pistons’ move to bring in Kevin Huerter sparked more questions than confidence. Fans debated his fit, consistency, and overall impact. As the season winds down, the conversation is shifting—not because everything looks perfect, but because Huerter is showing his value in real time.
Detroit already has a clear identity. The team plays with physicality, dominates the paint, and sets the tone defensively. Now it needs players who complement that foundation and keep the offense connected. Huerter is carving out that role. He impacts the game beyond shooting and proves he can be trusted in key moments.
He doesn’t have to be the star—he just has to be steady. If he continues to build confidence, knock down timely shots, and make the right plays, he becomes a key piece. The Pistons are pushing toward the next step. In Detroit, teams earn respect by how they finish—and Huerter is trending in the right direction.
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