Marcus Sasser Returns to Action, Lands Comparison to Magic Standout

Based on a timeline that the Detroit Pistons put in place for the rookie Marcus Sasser, it seemed there wasn’t a chance he would get an opportunity to suit up to face the Orlando Magic on Sunday night away from home.

But with the recent setback seemingly healing quicker than expected, the Pistons upgraded the young guard to probable after ruling him out for the past few games.

Sasser’s knee concerns started in the first game back from the 2024 All-Star break. In a 14-point loss against the Indiana Pacers, Sasser’s night ended after a ten-minute shift.

Two Saturdays ago, Sasser was expected to suit up against the Orlando Magic, but he was downgraded to questionable due to knee soreness hours before the game started. He was ruled out beforehand, beginning a stretch of absences.

The Pistons initially planned for a one-week absence for Sasser. He was evaluated earlier than expected and ended up getting upgraded ahead of the rematch against the Magic on Sunday following a four-game absence.

Marcus Sasser’s Stats vs. Magic

Without a minute limit attached to him, Sasser collected 25 minutes of playing time. He took the third-most shots from the second unit, trailing Evan Fournier and Simone Fontecchio.

Of his eight total shot attempts, Sasser put up five shots from beyond the arc. He went scoreless from three on the night. Overall, Sasser knocked down just one of his shots, scoring three points total, after going 1-1 from the charity stripe.

Aside from his lack of scoring, Sasser dished out four assists, tying Fontecchio for the second-most on the team, behind Fournier. Sasser also had one steal and three rebounds on the defensive end.

Comparisons to Cole Anthony

It wasn’t the sharpest first game back for the rookie guard, but the circumstances likely played a part in his struggles.

Sasser’s recent string of absences was the longest of his career so far. After failing to play in last week’s game against the New York Knicks, Sasser missed consecutive games for just the second time this season.

Despite the ups and downs, Pistons’ Monty Williams feels good about the rookie, giving him a player comp to a member of the Magic, Cole Anthony.

Monty on Sasser returning: “His shooting and the scoring ability. He has improved his passing in the pocket and understanding different coverages. And defensively, sometimes he’s able to apply pressure.” Said he can provide what Cole Anthony does for Orlando.
— Offseason O (@omarisankofa) March 3, 2024

Next Up for the Pistons

The Pistons are set to take on the Miami Heat on Tuesday night for the second time this year. Barring any setbacks, Sasser could be on pace to play once again.