Monty Williams Provides Concerning Medical Update on Pistons Rookie
Detroit Pistons rookie Marcus Sasser is still "struggling."
As the regular season comes to a close, the Detroit Pistons find themselves with a depleted roster. Along with multiple players being shut down for the year, Monty Williams has been without a rotation piece as of late.
After missing the Pistons’ previous matchup vs the Washington Wizards, Marcus Sasser was ruled out again Monday night against the Memphis Grizzlies. During his pregame media availability, head coach Monty Williams provided an update on the rookie guard. He cited the key thing Sasser is working on now is building up his cardio.
"Still struggling a bit. He's wearing himself out, he wants to get on the floor,” Williams said pregame. “But I looked at him this morning and I thought, man he's still struggling. He's on medication and rest, and now he's building his cardio back up."
Due to the Pistons being short handed, Sasser was getting extended minutes for the Pistons as of late. Williams has also been experimenting with the sharpshooter, playing him at point guard. It yielded some early dividends, as Sasser has had some impressive outings as a lead guard. Among his top performances was against the New York Knicks last week when he notched 24 points and six assists in a loss.
Detroit acquired Sasser in a trade with the Grizzlies days after the NBA Draft. In his first season, the 23-year-old is averaging 7.6 PPG, 1.7 APG, and 3.2 APG while shooting 37.9% from beyond the arc.
Based on Williams’ comments, it seems as though Sasser is attempting to play again this season. Following their matchup with the Grizzlies Monday, the Pistons have seven games remaining on their regular season schedule.
