Without top big men Jalen Duren and IsaiahStewart, the Pistons had no trouble dispatching the Toronto Raptors on the road, 113-95, behind another excellent performance from guard Cade Cunningham and a showcase from third-string center Paul Reed.
Duren is the starter and Stewart is the backup, leaving Paul Reed as the lone center on the 15-man roster. ToluSmith is on a two-way contract and at 6 feet 11, is primed to see playing time behind Reed.Paul Reed stats ... Paul Reed contract with Pistons.
Paul Reed, however, was also important in Detroit's defensive success. His physicality was essential in defending Towns, and Reed's defensive production was evident ... Reed is capable of defending on the perimeter ... Reed does.
Detroit — Paul Reed's number isn't called every night, and his playing time can be inconsistent, depending on the opponent and the team's health ... Bickerstaff turns to the six-year veteran in times of need, Reed performs at a high level.
Paul Reed has always had the heart of the basketball analytics community. On Wednesday night, in the starting lineup for the incredibly shorthanded Detroit Pistons, Reed showed why ... Reed clearly didn't mind a featured role.