The Pistons started off their Summer League with an 81-71 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, powered by the rookie debuts of Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren and a solid performance by Isaiah Stewart.
Ivey finished his first professional game with 20 points, six rebounds, and six assists, Stewart posted 13 points and nine rebounds, and Duren followed up with nine points and two blocks.
Ivey and Duren were able to show off some quick chemistry with a tough alley-oop early in the first quarter. Although the former Memphis Tiger was on a minute restriction, the rhythm he and Ivey showcased could be a sign of good things to come as the Summer League rolls on.
Jaden Ivey with the dime to Jalen Duren 🔨❗️ pic.twitter.com/AUDaJx5ZDH
— NBA TV (@NBATV) July 8, 2022
When Stewart was asked Duren and the impact he had on the court, Stewart said the main takeaway he had was that Duren was just like him when he was 18-years-old, namely being “destructive, blocking everything, and being very physical.”
“Sh*t. That’s what I think when I see (Jalen) Duren. He’s just a massive guy; on top of that, he’s only 18 years old. He reminds me of a bigger version of myself when I was 18, being destructive, blocking everything, and being very physical. He’s good.”
#Pistons Isaiah Stewart: “Sh*#. That’s what I think when I see (Jalen) Duren. He’s just a massive guy; on top of that, he’s only 18 years old. He reminds me of a bigger version of myself when I was 18, being destructive, blocking everything, and being very physical. He’s good.”
— Rod Beard (@detnewsRodBeard) July 8, 2022
Even though Stewart and Duren are still learning how to play together, he still loves the physicality Duren plays with and is confident they will get to play more ball together in practice and the Summer League.
“I didn’t get a chance to practice with him much, just because the trade through (hadn’t gone through) through (yet), but I’m sure we’re gonna get some bump in, for sure.”
#Pistons Isaiah Stewart on Jalen Duren: “I didn’t get a chance to practice with him much, just because the trade through (hadn’t gone through) through (yet), but I’m sure we’re gonna get some bump in, for sure.”
— Rod Beard (@detnewsRodBeard) July 8, 2022
Isaiah is here for the physicality.
The Pistons return to action with a Sunday evening contest against the Wizards.
