In the difficult journey of Monty Williams’ Detroit Pistons in 2023-24, one of the biggest signs of optimism has been the acquisition of Simone Fontecchio. Since Detroit acquired Fontecchio in February, the 29-year-old swingman has proven to be a positive addition to the frontcourt.
Fontecchio is averaging 15 points per game, shooting 46.6 percent from the field and 41.5 percent from three in his 10 games with the Pistons. Head coach Monty Williams admired his play before last Friday’s loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, describing how well Fontecchio has adapted to the Pistons so far.
“We were looking forward to learning from him. I saw him when I was in Phoenix because he was in Utah. You could tell he was trying to find his way, but every once in a while you’d see him make a play and you’d say ‘wow.’ But I’m not surprised. I think there is something more to his game and coming off the bench for us can open up new possibilities for him.”.
Monty Williams had a lot of praise for Simone Fontecchio’s game during the pregame presser #Pistons
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– Eric Vincent (@IAmEricVincent) March 1, 2024
Detroit used Fontecchio as a starter and as a reserve off the bench. He started six games in Isaiah Stewart’s absence due to injury and suspension. His shooting, spacing, and versatility served Detroit well in both roles. The Pistons desperately needed another versatile shooter, and he is proving to be worth keeping him around for the future.
Also read: SUPER FONTECCHIO! He comes close to a career-high but Detroit falls to Miami.
