Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey before playing against the Orlando Magic at Little Caesars Arena. He can go back to basketball activities now after being sidelined since January 1 with a fractured left fibula. The announcement came as a shock late last week on Thursday. It came with just weeks to spare before the playoffs start on April 19, immediately following a play-in tournament. Either way, Ivey’s return is a huge boost for the Pistons. What’s more, they’re absolutely hell bent on shoring up their standings for the postseason.
Ivey, 23, has been more impactful than you’d think for the Pistons since being drafted fifth overall in 2022. He’s never missed a game in his entire career, having appeared in 181 games, of which he’s started in 164. So far this season, Ivey has been extremely impressive, averaging 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.0 assists. He proved his versatility by starting all 30 games up to that injury. His performance has been a large part of the Pistons making the playoffs for the first time since 2019.
Ivey is in the midst of the first stage of his re-conditioning plan. He’s turning all that focused energy into a powerful return from injury on the court! His status will be updated again in two weeks, which will shed more light on his preparedness for game play. With just three regular-season games left, the timing of his recovery may be the deciding factor in the Pistons’ playoff hopes.
Through eight games, the Pistons are in sixth place in an Eastern Conference standings that has had a few surprises so far. They’ve been a hardworking and resilient squad all season long, doing what it’s taken to be at their best and earn a spot in the playoffs. Their success is a testament to their diligence and dedication paired with an earnest desire to protect public safety. If Ivey indeed returns, as expected, they’ll definitely increase their odds for a deeper playoff run.
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