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Detroit Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff speaks with Jalen Duren during a playoff game as the team backs its young core ahead of a do-or-die Game 6 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
With the Detroit Pistons facing elimination, head coach J.B. Bickerstaff delivered a clear message Friday: there will be no panic — and no loss of faith — in two of his young cornerstones.
Ahead of a do-or-die Game 6 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Bickerstaff publicly backed center Jalen Duren and wing Ausar Thompson despite their uneven postseason performances.
“People can judge however they want to judge, but we’re looking at this big picture — what would it say about us if we choose to give up on them?” Bickerstaff said, according to Tony Pesta of Fear The Sword.
The Pistons enter Game 6 trailing the Eastern Conference semifinal series 3-2 after a 117-113 overtime loss in Game 5. Detroit’s collapse late in regulation — and subsequent struggles in overtime — intensified scrutiny on several rotation players, particularly Duren and Thompson.
Duren, an All-Star during the regular season, has seen a sharp drop in production in the playoffs. After averaging 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds on 65% shooting during Detroit’s 60-win campaign, the 21-year-old big man has struggled to find rhythm against Cleveland’s frontcourt.
In the series, Duren is averaging just 9.4 points and 6.6 rebounds while shooting 46.2%. His struggles prompted Bickerstaff to bench him for the entire fourth quarter and overtime of Game 5.
Thompson, meanwhile, has remained a defensive force — averaging 2.0 steals and 1.8 blocks — but has been inconsistent offensively, contributing just 8.3 points per game.
The downturn has not gone unnoticed outside the organization.
Three-time NBA champion Danny Green recently suggested the Pistons consider benching Duren altogether, citing the urgency of postseason play.
“We can’t play him. We got to win a playoff game,” Green said on the No Fouls Given podcast, adding that a benching could serve as a wake-up call.
Danny Green says Detroit Pistons need to bench Jalen Duren:
“I’m praying for him, I hope nothing going on whatever’s happening with Jalen Duren. Regardless of the fact we can’t play him, we got to win a playoff game if you have something going on you better communicate that we
Duren acknowledged his struggles after Game 5.
“Absolutely, I feel I could be better in all aspects of the game,” he said. “I think my brothers handled it.”
Despite the criticism, Bickerstaff made it clear Detroit’s approach will not be dictated by outside noise — or short-term frustration.
Bickerstaff compared the situation to Cleveland’s own development curve with All-Star forward Evan Mobley, emphasizing that growth often comes through adversity.
“Guys go through tough situations and become better for it,” Bickerstaff added, via Pesta.
The message underscores Detroit’s long-term vision, even as the team faces immediate elimination.
Cade Cunningham has carried the offensive burden throughout the playoffs, averaging 30.0 points, 7.7 assists and 5.5 rebounds. But for the Pistons to extend their season, they will need more consistent contributions from their supporting cast — particularly Duren and Thompson.
Game 6 presents a defining moment for Detroit’s young core.
The Cavaliers, who rallied from nine points down in the final minutes of Game 5, will have their first opportunity to close out the series on their home floor. The winner advances to the Eastern Conference finals to face the New York Knicks.
For the Pistons, the path forward is clear but difficult: balance trust in their developing players with the urgency of a season on the line.
Bickerstaff’s stance leaves little ambiguity.
Detroit will ride with its young stars and live with the results.
Alder Almo is a veteran NBA reporter for Heavy.com, covering the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. He brings over 20 years of experience across local and international media, including broadcast, print and digital. He previously covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and the NBA for Off the Glass. Originally from the Philippines, he is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey. More about Alder Almo
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