The Detroit Pistons are beginning to show extreme growth since last year. Their win against the Orlando Magic gave them their 15th win of the season. It’s one more than their tally last season. However, tonight they faced a challenge that may have been more difficult than those years of struggle. Cade Cunningham and Co. had to regather themselves after Jaden Ivey suffered a gruesome injury.

The moment no doubt was emotionally draining for the Pistons as they watched a selfless member of their team being stretchered off the floor. “It’s tough man. No better teammate, or person than JI. No one cares more about this thing than him. It’s tough to see,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said about Ivey.

The third-year guard was having a sensational game, scoring 22 points while shooting over 70% of the field. But a freak sequence prevented what could have been a prolific performance. As a team, Cade Cunningham resonated with the sentiments of his coach. However, Bickerstaff also mentioned that the team’s concern for Ivey is what helped them stay on course.

“The sacrifices that he has made you know what I mean within this team, within himself to help this team and other individuals grow. So they banded together because they know that’s what he would have wanted them to do,” said the former Cavaliers coach. In doing so, the Pistons came together as a group to refocus once again.

And Cunningham revealed what exactly went on in that huddle. “We sent a prayer for him, just wanted to collect ourselves and remind. talk about it, make sure we’re on the same page,” said the former number-one pick.

Jaden Ivey was showing great promise

It’s not for no reason that Bickerstaff and the whole of the Pistons absolutely love having Jaden Ivey on the time. The electric point guard works hard on both ends of the floor, using his speed and athleticism. But in his first two years as the Pistons with the team struggling, he never got to play the bright spark.

That has changed this season. Playing besides a solid and young cast, Ivey has become an ideal second fiddle to Cade Cunningham. This season in particular under Bickerstaff, Ivey found his fit in the finest way possible.

Averaging a career-high 17.6 points per game, the former All-Rookie selection had been scoring the ball with finesse over the past 5 games in particular. With playmaking mainly being Cunningham’s job, Ivey has been able to play with freedom, using his off-ball acumen well. In addition, he has developed into a sniper from range, shooting 40.9%.

Playing under 25 minutes today, Ivey also tied his career-high five triples, showcasing the improved jumper and instincts. Sadly, that’s when it all went south in the worst way possible for the third-year guard. With the injury yet to be assessed, it’s hard to ascertain just how long Jaden Ivey could be out.

But by his reaction and the aftermath, it seems the 22 year old promising talent will spend considerable time on the sidelines. It’s a shame that his great season will experience an abrupt pause. But his teammate Cade Cunningham is aware about his work ethic. “He’s built for it, he’s gonna shake back, he’s work his tail off and he’s gonna be better than everyone he gets back,” said the Pistons star about Ivey.

How do you view the 6’4″ guard as a player? Let us know your  thoughts in the comments below.