While most were disappointed because the Detroit Pistons lost to the OKC Thunder. Others saw some positives and improvements from the Pistons players. Here are the biggest takeaways when I was watching the game last night.

Sekou’s Defensive

Sekou Doumbouya put on a show on the defensive end of the court. From locking down at the perimeter to protecting the paint. Doumbouya showed his ability to be an elite defender for the Pistons. Doumbouya had 4 defensive rebounds, 1 steal, and 5 blocks.

Sekou tonight was really impressive on the defensive end of the floor. https://t.co/mp5DlZOASk

— Pistons Talk (@Pistons__Talk) August 9, 2021

Cunningham is Unselfish

First overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Cade Cunningham made his Pistons Summer League debut. Even though Cunningham was disappointed to lose the game, he proved to be unselfish with the ball. Cunningham was getting everyone on the court involved on both sides of the court. He made an effort to make the extra passes to his teammates instead of just taking contested shots.

Also, he showed signs of being a great leader. While he was on the bench, Cunningham would get out of his seat and be vocal to his teammates throughout the entire game. Cunningham is showing signs that he is all about the team and not just himself.

Cade Cunningham strips it and slams it #DetroitUp pic.twitter.com/6VRR24KHXh

— Woodward Sports Network (@woodwardsports) August 9, 2021

Garza’s Athleticism Improving

The Pistons second round pick Luka Garza showed signs of promise. Garza’s mobility and speed on the floor has improved since his time at Iowa. Garza lost 30 pounds right before the Summer League to help with his speed and athleticism. He not only showed signs of improvement in his athleticism. But he showed he could be a boost on the offensive side of the ball. Garza was 3-5 from the field and even scored a three-pointer.

Hopefully, Garza can earn more minutes for the rest of Summer League. Garza only played 13 minutes in the game last night, so hopefully, the Pistons put him for around 18-20 minutes in the next game.

Luka Garza with the rebound and the bucket pic.twitter.com/Mjt3xzhtxs

— Palace Pistons (@PalaceOfPistons) August 9, 2021