Pistons Need Duncan Robinson to Improve His Isolation Defense

Duncan Robinson faces a defensive challenge as the Detroit Pistons prepare for the new NBA season, with his ability to contain opponents in isolation emerging as a key concern. According to Piston Powered, the 32-year-old shooting guard must improve his individual defense to maintain his value to Detroit, particularly in high-stakes games. Robinson delivered an excellent shooting campaign during his first season with the Pistons, but his defensive limitations became more apparent in the playoffs.

Opponents repeatedly targeted him in individual matchups, forcing teammates to provide additional defensive support. The Pistons will face an immediate test against the Boston Celtics in their season opener. Boston's offensive approach, which emphasizes drives to the basket and three-point shooting, could put Robinson under pressure if the Celtics identify him as a defensive weakness.

Robinson is currently projected to start at shooting guard because of his three-point shooting and secondary playmaking. However, Piston Powered notes that Detroit's growing collection of capable shooters could make it easier to reduce his playing time if his defense does not improve.

Any adjustment to his role may take time and could come later in the season, potentially during the playoffs. His offensive production remains valuable, but his ability to defend effectively could influence how much the Pistons rely on him. Robinson's defensive limitations stem partly from physical constraints. Although he consistently works hard on defense, he lacks the quickness to match some of the NBA's best guards and the size to handle its strongest forwards.

During last season's playoffs, scorers including Paolo Banchero, Donovan Mitchell and James Harden targeted Robinson in individual matchups. Those challenges highlighted the importance of improving his positioning and discipline when defending without immediate help. Detroit's defensive system could help limit those vulnerabilities. The Pistons use active help defense, particularly when Ausar Thompson is on the floor, allowing teammates to assist Robinson during isolation situations before rotating back to their original assignments.

That approach, however, has limitations against teams with elite shooting and passing across their lineups. According to Piston Powered, Detroit may need to use pre-switching and better communication to prevent opponents from repeatedly creating favorable matchups against Robinson. Pre-switching involves changing defensive assignments before an anticipated screen or mismatch develops.

The strategy could help Robinson avoid guarding elite scorers, although its success would depend on coordinated movement and communication throughout the Pistons' defense. Detroit could begin practicing these adjustments during the regular season to prepare for potential playoff matchups. The system would require players to recognize developing offensive actions and rotate quickly without leaving other opponents open.

Robinson can also address some of his individual shortcomings by avoiding unnecessary reaching fouls. Piston Powered identifies his tendency to reach too often in isolation situations as an area for improvement, making defensive discipline another important part of his development.

At 32, Robinson remains an established perimeter shooting option, but his defensive performance will be an important factor in determining his role as the Pistons begin their new campaign.