Detroit Pistons 2013-14 season preview
By Josh Sanchez
Strengths
Front Court
The Pistons Strength lays in the front court with Andre Drummond, Greg Monroe and Josh Smith the probable starters. Andre Drummond is considered and up and coming star in the league. He also demonstrated his willingness to step into a leadership role by inviting the rookie for off season work-outs at the palace. Drummond also took part in the summer league and should be able to hit the ground running when the Pistons open the season.
Depth
For the first time in years the Detroit Pistons roster has depth. A lot of that depth comes at the guard position where there are 6 players all capable of starting for any team. That said Chauncey Billips and Greg Jennings will likely be the starters with Rodney Stuckey, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Wil Bynum all making contributions off the bench.
Weaknesses
Shoot First Mentality
Josh Smith, Brandon Jennings and Luigi Datome all have never met a shot they didn’t like. Joe Dumars brought in Chauncey Billips to distribute the ball but that won’t be enough for keep pressure on the opposing defense. Smith and Jennings are going to have mix in a few passes to make this offense work.
Head Coach
The Pistons may have missed the mark when they hire Maurice Cheeks. Without even coaching a game he has already been involved in a scandal involving a women and alleged domestic violence. There were no charges filed but it is still a warning sign for a team that doesn’t need any distractions.
Outlook
With the talent on the roster, the Pistons should be a playoff team this season. That’s good news for Joe Dumars whose job is on the line if they fail to make the postseason. Tom Gores has given Joe Dumars full control over in this season. If the Pistons fail to meet expectations there won’t be anybody else for Teflon Joe to blame it on.