UPDATE: Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey is sidelined for the next four weeks following right knee surgery, the team confirmed today. This setback complicates Ivey’s anticipated return to the court, as he had already missed the last 49 games of the previous season due to a left fibula injury.
Ivey’s recent discomfort emerged after participating in just one preseason game. Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff revealed that the injury was not the result of a single incident but rather a gradual issue stemming from his training. “It was something that was developing over his work,” Bickerstaff stated ahead of the Pistons’ final preseason clash against the Washington Wizards. “Our priority is to do what’s right by our guys, and never put them in a position where we feel like we have to rush them back.”
The Pistons are taking a cautious approach, especially given Ivey’s history as one of the league’s fastest players. With the October 20 deadline looming for his rookie-scale contract extension, this injury raises further questions about his future with the team.
In Ivey’s absence, the Pistons have acquired veteran guard Dennis Schroder to step in as backup point guard. Bickerstaff mentioned that Marcus Sasser and two-way player Daniss Jenkins will also play crucial roles in filling the gaps. Third-year forward Ausar Thompson is expected to take on more responsibilities as a primary facilitator when Cade Cunningham, the All-NBA guard, is off the court.
As news of Ivey’s surgery spreads, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this will impact the Pistons’ season. The team aims to ensure Ivey’s full recovery, which could extend to 10 months before he is back in regular-season action. The focus remains on his long-term health and performance as the organization navigates this challenging period.
Stay tuned for the latest updates as the Pistons prepare for the upcoming season without one of their key players.