Pistons' Marcus Sasser Discusses Current Key Areas of Focus

Marcus Sasser is working on expanding as his rookie season with the Detroit Pistons concludes.

When the Detroit Pistons acquired Marcus Sasser days after the draft, they knew they were
getting a guard who can shoot and score the ball. However, he’s recently been put in a new
position as his first NBA season comes to a close.

With the Pistons dealing with so many injuries, Sasser has been starting at point guard. This is something he did sparingly in college, but primarily has been utilized as an off-ball guard. It’s been an adjustment for Sasser, but it’s an opportunity he’s been taking in stride.

The Pistons rookie recently touched on what this experience has been like for him. Sasser cited improving in the pick-and-roll and finding balance between scoring and passing as two keys to this learning experience.

“Last year in college, I was trying to get an introduction to it, playing the one sometimes. Now, it’s full-time,” Sasser told The Athletic. “That’s my role when I come in. There’s a difference learning when to score, when to pass. The main thing, right now, I’m just trying to get better in pick-and-rolls, to make the right reads. I feel like the scoring and stuff will come. It’s a learning experience for me.”

While it’s been something totally new for him, Sasser has had some success in his new role. He had one of his best performances of the season against the Knicks Monday, posting 24 points and six rebounds in a loss. It’s also worth noting that the rookie guard has recorded at least six assists in three of his last five games.

Overall, Sasser has put together a strong first season with the Pistons. He is averaging 7.6 PPG and 3.2 APG while shooting 38.6% from beyond the arc.

Part of it might be out of necessity, but this Sasser experiment could be with the future in mind. If he can become a reliable point guard, it opens up new possibilities for his role moving forward.

As of now, the Pistons have no clear backup at point guard behind Cade Cunningham. That
said, if Sasser can develop into one, it’s a spot he could claim down the road.