Auburn Hills — At the end of Saturday’s win over the Bulls, the Pistons had an odd lineup on the court. With Andre Drummond on the bench after fouling out, the Pistons stayed small and went with Ish Smith to finish down the stretch.
It’s becoming an early hallmark of coach Dwane Casey’s tenure, a small lineup on the floor, often with two point guards. Smith ended up making the go-ahead basket with five seconds left, lifting the Pistons to a road win.
With a pair of All-Star-caliber big men, the Pistons have a rare combination in the league, but their strength also could reside in their many options at the guard positions and on the wings.