Kevin Huerter Faces Pivotal Playoff Moment With Pistons

Newly acquired guard could prove his long-term value with consistent three-point shooting in the postseason.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 7:13pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a basketball player in mid-jump shot, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic movement and energy of the game. The player's jersey number 27 is the only identifiable element, conceptually representing the importance of Kevin Huerter's performance to the Pistons' playoff success.A cubist interpretation of Pistons guard Kevin Huerter's pivotal playoff moment, as he aims to provide a consistent perimeter scoring threat for Detroit's championship aspirations.Washington Today

The Detroit Pistons acquired Kevin Huerter at the NBA trade deadline in hopes of improving their three-point shooting ahead of the playoffs. Huerter, who is averaging 8.6 points and 29.4% from three since joining the Pistons, will have a chance to prove his worth in the first-round series against the Orlando Magic and potentially beyond.

Why it matters

The Pistons are favored to get past the Magic, but consistent three-point shooting will be crucial, especially in a potential Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Huerter's ability to provide a perimeter scoring threat could be the difference-maker for Detroit's NBA Finals aspirations.

The details

In 44 games with the Chicago Bulls earlier this season, Huerter shot 31.4% from three-point range, averaging 10.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. The Pistons are hoping he can recapture that form in the playoffs. Huerter's best postseason performance came in 2021 with the Atlanta Hawks, when he averaged 11.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists as they made a run to the Eastern Conference Finals.

  • The Pistons open their first-round playoff series against the Magic on Sunday, April 20, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. ET.
  • Huerter scored 15 points, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds while shooting 42.9% from three in the Pistons' regular-season finale against the Indiana Pacers.

The players

Kevin Huerter

A guard acquired by the Detroit Pistons at the NBA trade deadline, known for his consistent three-point shooting.

Jaden Ivey

The 2022 No. 5 overall pick who the Pistons traded to the Chicago Bulls as part of the deal to acquire Huerter.

Trae Young

The star point guard of the Atlanta Hawks, who Huerter played alongside during the team's 2021 playoff run to the Eastern Conference Finals.

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What’s next

It'll be interesting to see the impact that Huerter has in Game 1 for the Pistons against the Magic as he's coming off an impressive performance in the regular-season finale.

The takeaway

This playoff series against the Magic represents a pivotal moment for Huerter to prove his long-term value to the Pistons. If he can provide consistent three-point shooting, it could be the boost Detroit needs to make a deep postseason run and potentially challenge for an NBA championship.