Pistons’ Maurice Cheeks says Brandon Jennings needs to play better defense

In what comes as no surprise to anyone, Detroit Pistons’ head coach Maurice Cheeks says his point guard, Brandon Jennings, needs to play better defense.

“I think Jennings has a chance to be very good,” Cheeks told Fran Blinebury of NBA.com. “I keep talking about steps. “You take steps, you get better at defending your position. That’s how you become one of those elite players. You don’t become elite by having someone else guard your guy.”

Cheeks is referring to Kenatvious Caldwell-Pope, a rookie.

What can Jennings do to improve?

Cheeks continued to harp on taking small steps to become a better defender, something Jennings hasn’t done.

The Pistons acquired Jennings in a sign-and-trade with the Milwaukee Bucks, sending a former lottery pick of their own, Brandon Knight to the Bucks in return.

Despite the defensive lapses, Jennings to put up big numbers on offense. He’s averaging 17.5 points, 7.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game.

The Pistons will be back in action Friday when they host the struggling Brooklyn Nets. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 pm EST.