Stan Van Gundy provides clarity on Stanley Johnson's situation

Embattled second-year forward Stanley Johnson has recently fallen out of favor with Stan Van Gundy, and virtually out of the Detroit Pistons’ rotation. Friday, Van Gundy spoke on the topic.

It’s been obvious to all for most of the season and preseason. Something isn’t right with Stanley Johnson, and the sophomore’s minutes and spot in the Detroit Pistons‘ rotation have reflected that.

Johnson has received two DNP-CDs in the past seven games, including Wednesday’s game against the Boston Celtics, and he was suspended for violating team rules two weeks ago for the Pistons’ win over the Los Angeles Clippers. He also played just two minutes the game after his suspension in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, on the second night of a back-to-back.

Over that stretch, his spot in the rotation has largely been supplanted by Darrun Hilliard. While Hilliard is not getting minutes like Johnson did last year, he has played 12 minutes or more in three of the last four games while Johnson mostly rides the bench.

Head coach and president of basketball operations Stan Van Gundy has clearly been displeased with Johnson, and he spoke on the topic with reporters earlier Friday in Atlanta.

Per Aaron McMann of MLive:

With clarity comes guidance, and a way for Johnson to work his way back into Van Gundy’s good graces. Part of being a pro is consistency and effort, and a second-year bench player on a playoff team with high upside should be one of the hardest workers.

Of course, effort and consistency are character issues, and it’s not uncommon to see young players waver on these counts. Fortunately, Van Gundy has given Johnson an early opportunity to avert course and make corrections.

We’ll see how it plays out going forward.