Swarming Hornets, the malleable Pistons and more NBA trends I'm watching

Sure, Charlotte's offense stands out in its recent hot stretch, but the Hornets have dominated on both ends of the floor.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The article discusses three NBA trends that have caught the author's eye over the past week. The first trend is the Charlotte Hornets' dominant two-way play, with their swarming defense complementing their high-powered offense. The second trend is the Detroit Pistons' ability to overcome injuries and continue their success, led by the versatile play of third-string center Paul Reed. The third trend is the defensive improvements of the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers, although the author cautions that their recent success may be partly due to shooting luck.

Why it matters

These trends highlight the evolving landscape of the NBA, with teams finding unique ways to succeed and adapt to injuries and other challenges. The Hornets' defensive transformation, the Pistons' depth, and the Knicks' and Cavaliers' defensive improvements are all significant storylines that could shape the playoff race and the broader narrative of the NBA season.

The details

The article delves into the specifics of each trend. For the Hornets, it describes how their swarming defense, led by players like Brandon Miller and Tidjane Salaun, has complemented their high-powered offense and propelled them up the standings. For the Pistons, it highlights the impact of third-string center Paul Reed, who has made plays on both ends of the floor to help the team overcome injuries to key players. For the Knicks and Cavaliers, the article notes their recent defensive improvements, but also cautions that their success may be partly due to shooting luck, as measured by the qSM statistic.

  • Since Jan. 3, the Hornets have ranked 3rd in the NBA in points per possession.
  • Over the past 22 games, the Hornets have held opponents to just 0.92 points per possession following an offensive rebound, the lowest average in the NBA.

The players

Brandon Miller

A third-year up-and-comer for the Hornets, who has stepped up as the one to defend the opposition's top wing.

Tidjane Salaun

A second-year forward for the Hornets, who has helped the team swarm opponents on defense.

Paul Reed

The third-string center for the Pistons, who has made an impact with his energy, rebounding, and defensive playmaking.

J.B. Bickerstaff

The head coach of the Pistons, who has given Reed the freedom to play to his strengths on the defensive end.

Cade Cunningham

The star player for the Pistons, who had 42 points and 13 assists in a recent win over the Knicks.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“(Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff) always tells me, 'You're in your coverage,'" Reed said. "I got my own coverage.”

— Paul Reed, Pistons center (nytimes.com)

“It's all instincts,”

— Paul Reed, Pistons center (nytimes.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These trends highlight the evolving landscape of the NBA, with teams finding unique ways to succeed and adapt to injuries and other challenges. The Hornets' defensive transformation, the Pistons' depth, and the Knicks' and Cavaliers' defensive improvements are all significant storylines that could shape the playoff race and the broader narrative of the NBA season.