Three questions the Pistons face heading into training camp
With training camp about to tip off, here’s what to watch for as your favorite team prepares for the 2015-16 season. Some of these questions will be answered quickly; others could linger into the regular season. Either way, here are three things that will define the first month of this new season:
Who will the starting forwards be?
While Reggie Jackson, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Andre Drummond are essentially locks in the starting lineup, things get a little tricky at the forward spots. Rookie Stanley Johnson seems like he has a good crack at the starting small forward gig, but Marcus Morris could challenge him for that spot. Ersan Ilyasova may start at the 4, or the Pistons could go small and play Morris there.
Either way, someone is going to be left out. The position battle should play out in the preseason, and don't be surprised if Stan Van Gundy opts to add shooting wherever he can find it. Unless Johnson really surprises with his range, the veterans might have the leg up.
Can Andre Drummond shine next to legitimate stretch big men?
Drummond played some of the best basketball of his career next to Anthony Tolliver last season instead of Greg Monroe, so there's hope that playing full time next to a stretch 4 will unlock some of his immense potential.
Drummond has already proven to be an elite rebounder on both ends and a rim protecting force, but his post scoring and free throw shooting are extremely shaky. With more space to operate, however, he could surprise as a legitimate offensive option this season.
What role will Brandon Jennings play?
Brandon Jennings, returning from a torn Achilles last season, is probably the biggest question mark on the roster. It's tough to say what can be expected of Jennings in his return, and where Stan Van Gundy will play him once he returns.
Can he play alongside Reggie Jackson? Will he become a 6th man? How Jennings bounces back could be the difference in Detroit becoming a playoff team or not
