Detroit Pistons Op-Ed: Firing Monty Williams Is Not the Answer
The Detroit Pistons are going to end this season at the bottom of the NBA. This is far from the “Bad Boys” era when they won two back-to-back titles in 1989 and 1990. But, firing Detroit Pistons head coach Monty Williams is not the answer. I really believe in the Detroit Pistons and the franchise’s ability to come back, although I understand the massive frustration. Here’s why keeping Williams on is the best move.
Detroit Pistons: Firing Monty Williams Is Not the Answer
The Pistons have been rebuilding for four years now. But, things seem to be getting worse. When you look at their record this season, the Pistons have lost more than 60 games. But, if you look at some of their star players, such as Cade Cunningham, you see the talent is there. For one, the Pistons need to build a team around Cunningham. They haven’t tried to do this yet. Sure, Cunningham has been injured for most of his time with the Pistons so far, but for the games he’s been healthy, he’s been one of the best players in the NBA. Even this season, missing the beginning of the season, he broke records when he was back on the court. So, instead of going with the negative of cleaning house, focus on a positive, which is to build something around Cunningham to give him the support he needs.
Now, onto why firing Monty Williams is not the answer. Williams still has six years left on his contract. So, getting rid of him could cost the franchise and owner Tom Gores a lot of money. But, there are other reasons to keep Williams on. Frankly, even though Williams is getting a lot of blame for this year’s record, the truth is that he didn’t put this roster together. That’s more on general manager Troy Weaver, who joined the Pistons in 2020. Williams came on late in the game, pun intended, and is working with a team that was largely formulated without his input before he stepped in. What’s more, this is Williams’ very first season with the Pistons. People forget that the Detroit Lions lost almost every game during Dan Campbell’s first season with the team. They didn’t even get a win a single game until December of that season.
But, the main reason to keep Monty Williams is that he’s good. I don’t think you’ll find anyone better qualified who’s available. He’s a former Coach of the Year and took home that title just three years ago. Give him time to do his thing. Reach out to me with your thoughts.
5 NBA Teams to Watch Right Now
5. Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers are solid this year, but they aren’t one of the best of the best. That said, there’s lots of potential here. Watch these guys closely. It’s so fun to watch Tyrese Maxey, who is a total superstar. He’s been averaging an upwards of 28 points per game lately.
(Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
4. Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves had a big loss to the Bucks following the break, but then, they came back and definitively beat the Nets. The Wolves have been experiencing a few offensive hiccups, but they’re still one of the strongest teams in the league.
(Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
3. Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder crew is on fire. Coming back from break, they totally blew out the Clippers, Wizards and Rockets. Chet Holmgren is a star here, averaging around 24 points a game.
(Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)
2. Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets are another team that came out of break with fire. These guys have been on a winning streak since the break ended. Nikola Jokic has been especially strong since break, averaging around 27 points per game.
(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
1. Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics are really the strongest team in the NBA right now. They’re on a winning streak, which is nothing new for them. They have not one but a group of star players in Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum and Derrick White. It’s hard to see any team topping them.
(Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)
