The effort started with Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey committing to pressuring opposing ball-handlers, and trickled down to Jalen Duren at center.

The Pistons had the third-best defensive rating during the preseason and held their opponents under 100 points in each of their three victories. Although impressed by the whole team, Bickerstaff Detroit's defensive growth to Ivey — another testament to his ongoing development ahead of his third season.

The last quarter-and-a-half was not quite as impressive – with Cleveland’s reserves combining for just 31 points after intermission and dropping the 108-92 decision in Detroit.