In fact, if the Pistons were only performing at last year’s levels – both in frequency of 3-point attempts and accuracy – they’d be averaging five more points a game, 106.5 instead of 101.5. That would give them the league’s 12th best scoring offense, tied with San Antonio. Instead, they’re 26th in scoring.
If they were shooting at the league averages in 3-point attempts (26.9) and accuracy (.359) instead of their current figures – 23.2 attempts, 26th in the league; and .320 accuracy, 28th – they’d be up a full seven points a game at 108.5 – the league’s No. 6 scoring offense.
Coupled with their No. 9-ranked defense, it’s fair to guess the Pistons would be jockeying with Boston and Washington for the No. 2 playoff seed in the East behind Cleveland and not scrapping with Milwaukee, Miami and Chicago for the final two playoff spots.