Detroit Pistons Season Thread

[Jwo 7]

This is the one time that I love being wrong. Thank God the Pistons lost.

It's so annoying hearing people talk about them around here.

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

This is so hard. I really believe this team needs a shake up. Only problem is I don't know who.

Heres what I want Detroit to do...trade both our 1st rounders to move up, and draft Acie Law from Texas A&M, or if we can move up high enough Mike Connley Jr. from tOSU. We need a PG for 2 reasons: Hunter will probably be gone, and Billups could leave us. I know we have Blaylock, but he needs to develop.

For next year heres what I want:

-Bring back Webber if we can get him cheap. Yes, Webber had his fair share of troubles, but you have to admit when he is on his game he gives the Pistons a whole new look that no one can really stop.

-Let Hunter, Davis, and Dupree go. Bring up Blalock, and Johnson. Maxiel/Delfino get bigger roles.

- A new head coach. Like people said above Flip can't coach in the playoffs. Would have loved to get Billy Donavan.

[Guest Crymson]

The way he performed he should have paid us. He must go.

We need to put all the time and effort into making Amir Johnson a star.

I somehow doubt we would have been better off without a center who shot 52.4% from the field and logged an average of 25 minutes, 6.3 rebound and 10 points per game, all for zero salary. Tell me--who on the team could have done a better job at center, hmm?

Watch the games before you make these sorts of comments, and drop the spoiled act.

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

The thing to also remember about C-Webb is he is way better then Mohumand (sp). The more I think about it I hope we keep Webber.

[RockyMountainWingGal 108]

Colossal disappointment. Although I have to say the thought of getting trounced by SA makes it bearable to get beat in the ECF.... Give the Cavs some credit - they played the kind of series they needed to to win. I really thought it would still be a few years yet - sadly I underestimated them. But who were those guys wearing the Pistons' uniforms? I am completely baffled at how this team could look like they did a few weeks ago (vs Orlando and the first 3 games vs Chicago) and then look like they did the last 4 games???? Last year we knew what was wrong - the whole Ben Wallace discontent thing - plus losing to the Heat wasn't a big upset. This year I just don't know. Well I do know this team has never fared well as the favorites. Flip? Nice guy, but I just don't see it. This team hasn't played D since he arrived...

The Pistons have turned into the Red WIngs of the past several years: (top seed favorites, underacheivers in the POs, beat by Cinderellas) while the Red Wings have taken on the Pistons role (underdogs even if a top seed, overacheivers (I think), resilient). Interesting.....

[Aussie_Wing 354]

I somehow doubt we would have been better off without a center who shot 52.4% from the field and logged an average of 25 minutes, 6.3 rebound and 10 points per game, all for zero salary. Tell me--who on the team could have done a better job at center, hmm?

Watch the games before you make these sorts of comments, and drop the spoiled act.

We actually have good coverage of the NBA in Australia, you do realise that don't you?

Here's hoping that Wallace won't be back!

[timothy1997 0]

This is the one time that I love being wrong. Thank God the Pistons lost.

It's so annoying hearing people talk about them around here.

and the point of this comment is......

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

This is the one time that I love being wrong. Thank God the Pistons lost.

It's so annoying hearing people talk about them around here.

Then don't come in here...is it that hard?

[GoWings1905 2,694]

The Pistons need some changes for sure before next season, but I am not buying into the major overhaul everyone is calling for. First off, if they are going to keep Flip Saunders, they need to bring in some new blood that will actually buy into his coaching style. I personally am not a fan at all of Flip as a coach, and I think he needs to be fired, but it looks like Joe D and Mr. D are intent on not buying out another coach. Sadly, I think Flip returning as coach may hurt the Pistons chances at re-signing Chauncey. These Pistons need a new direction, and a change in attitude, but they can accomplish this while still remaining a quality basketball team.

If Chauncey does come back, the Pistons still have the premier back court in the NBA. Tay and Rip are not going anywhere, and we all know what Mr. Big Shot means to this team. The problem with the Pistons is their old, slow, and ineffective front court. Webber and Davis are done, Mohammed still has some trade value and likely will be dealt, and all indications are that Rasheed's days are numbered as well. McDyess has an option for next season to return, and he should be brought back, seeing he was one of the few players on the team that showed any heart or desire in the playoffs. If the Pistons can somehow trade 'Sheed for a big guy that is a threat to score in the low post, it will be a benefit by all accounts. The Pistons rely way too much on perimeter scoring from jump shots. No matter what, Maxiell will see an increased role for the Pistons next season.

As far as the bench goes, it's in shambles to put it bluntly. Flip's lack of confidence to play the bench significant minutes has a big factor on their effectiveness. Hunter is likely to retire, Murray never seemed to fit, Delfino has always underachieved, and the rest of the spare parts have already been mentioned. Dupree, Blalock, and Johnson may get a chance in training camp to earn more playing time depending on what happens this off-season. Again, this season the Pistons never got any sustained support from the bench, especially in the playoffs.

The Pistons have a chance to upgrade immediately in the draft, which is talented and deep. Acie Law would be a nice fit at the 15th pick from the Magic, and the Pistons also have their first round choice at pick 27. Glen Davis and Nick Fazekas seem to be logical choices if available here to shore-up the front court issues. The first priority should be obviously re-signing Chauncey, and then trying to overhaul the front court, likely meaning a trade of Rasheed. The Bulls, Cavs, and Heat should all be solid in the Eastern Conference next season, but the Pistons can still be right there challenging again with the right moves this summer. It will take some shrewd moves from Joe D, but he has done it before, and certainly can pull it off again. Go Pistons!

Edited June 11, 2007 by GoWings1905

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

The Pistons need some changes for sure before next season, but I am not buying into the major overhaul everyone is calling for. First off, if they are going to keep Flip Saunders, they need to bring in some new blood that will actually buy into his coaching style.

If Chauncey does come back, the Pistons still have the premier back court in the NBA.

As far as the bench goes, it's in shambles to put it bluntly.

Acie Law

First of all great post....my thoughts on the Pistons.

-Flip needs to go, but won't. If we really wanted to change the attitude of this team (which we do) Joe D should take a risk on BILL LAMBIER!! We would be one dirty team, and focus more on DEFENSE, which Flip doesn't like to do....

-Almost positive Billups will stay with Detroit. He has even went out to say if another team offered the same as Detroit he will stay.

-Bench is a joke. Hope Maxiel improves more, and Johnson is a nice suprise, which he could be. Delfino is so up and down...I guess he needs more time. I say keep Flip, and get GRANT HILL

- Love the Acie Law idea...was thinking the same thing, but sadly I think Law will go to high for our 15th pick. Most mock drafts have us taking Tiago Splitter, a 7 footer.

-Bring back Webber only if the price is right...he is better then Nazr

Edited June 11, 2007 by mannysBETTER3434

[Aussie_Wing 354]

We haven’t had close to a decent bench since our Championship year. Not only can’t we rely on it to chip in with a few points, but our starters are forced to play far too many minutes because of it.

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

We haven’t had close to a decent bench since our Championship year. Not only can’t we rely on it to chip in with a few points, but our starters are forced to play far too many minutes because of it.

Flip is to blame for this though. He trusts them in the season, and they do fairly well, but once playoffs come around he does nothing. In round 2 Maxiel had a huge game, and the very next game hardly played.

[GoWings1905 2,694]

Flip is to blame for this though. He trusts them in the season, and they do fairly well, but once playoffs come around he does nothing. In round 2 Maxiel had a huge game, and the very next game hardly played.

Sadly, Flip Saunders seems to be the common theme when looking at the problems the Pistons have encountered since Larry Brown left. Signing Rasheed ended up costing the Pistons players like Okur, Williamson, and James from the 2004 championship team. Not that I would ever say re-signing Rasheed was a mistake because he was the difference that year, but now I think we can all say Rasheed has pretty much worn out his welcome. I am sad to see that happen too because I personally love the guy in the red, white, and blue, but it's time to move on. Again, Flip Saunders has a lot to do with the whole Rasheed era ending. If the Pistons could somehow find a way to get Shawn Marion from Phoenix, that would be amazing. I have seen a lot of trade rumors floating around, but realistically I can't see anyway the Pistons could offer the Suns enough to make that deal. The more I think about the Pistons, the more upset I get with them. Blaming Flip Saunders is the easy way out, but the players must be held accountable to an extent at some point. This team had a terrific five-year run, but yet the window seems to be closed, and now one title in that time period looks like a disappointment. Man, what I would do to get Larry Brown to come back.

By the way, I love your idea about bringing Grant Hill back. It seems pretty likely to happen too. The Pistons need a guy that can come off the bench and score. Besides, we all know Grant wants to win above all else. That's why McDyess is my favorite Piston - the guy plays his heart out, and wants to win it all so bad. Another guy like that with Grant's ability still would be a welcome addition to the bench.

Edited June 11, 2007 by GoWings1905

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

How about both our first rounders, Nazr, and Amir Johnson for Kevin Garnett?

[GoWings1905 2,694]

How about both our first rounders, Nazr, and Amir Johnson for Kevin Garnett?

It's going to take more than that I would think. They would likely want the draft pick(s), plus a combination of either Rasheed or Johnson AND either Rip or Tayshaun. I doubt they will take Rasheed at this point, so it would probably take Johnson and then Rip or Tay as well. I do think the Pistons need a superstar though. Ever since the 2005 Finals, Stern has turned the NBA into a players league over teams. Look at the treatment guys like Wade and now LeBron got against the Pistons the past two seasons. Sadly, Stern wants players to succeed, and the team concept to go away. The Pistons lack that superstar, and Garnett would fit that role well, but I can't see KG coming to Detroit at any point. Also, if the Pistons re-sign Chauncey to a max contract, a trade for KG would likely mean they would have to pay the luxury tax, something Mr. D will never go for. Zach Randolph may be a possibility, but our biggest trade bait (Rasheed) will never go back to Portland, so a third team will likely be needed for that to happen.

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

I really like the Randolf idea too. I would love to get him or KG. I don't think the KG idea is that far fetched. I think Minny knows they have to trade him because they won't win a title with him. KG is just to loyal to say anything.

Here is the guy most think we will draft with the 15th pick.

http://www.draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=25

I wish Hibbert would have stayed in the draft from G-Town. I think that would be a good pick with the 15th...we need a good center.

[GoWings1905 2,694]

I really like the Randolf idea too. I would love to get him or KG. I don't think the KG idea is that far fetched. I think Minny knows they have to trade him because they won't win a title with him. KG is just to loyal to say anything.

Here is the guy most think we will draft with the 15th pick.

http://www.draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=25

I wish Hibbert would have stayed in the draft from G-Town. I think that would be a good pick with the 15th...we need a good center.

Thanks for the profile on Splitter. I honestly had never even heard of the guy. Seems like a decent player from everything that said, but the thing that scares me is they had his best case scenario turning out to be like PJ Brown. Granted, Brown has had a decent career, but if that's all this guy has the potential to turn out to be, then it doesn't seem like a great pick. If Acie Law is there or they can trade up to get him, they have to do it. Plus, I have a fear now of international big men when it comes to the Pistons drafting them. Realistically, the Pistons need to fill the power forward and center positions in their starting line-up this summer, assuming Webber retires or comes back as a role player, and Rasheed is in fact traded. Even with McDyess and Maxiell, I can't see either of those two becoming starters. One doesn't want that role, and the other isn't ready. I think picking 15th the Pistons are high enough to get a decent player, but just low enough to miss out on the elite players. I believe Randolph has more of a chance of coming here than KG, but do the Pistons want to replace Rasheed with another Rasheed? I'm still very worried that Chauncey is going to leave. I can see the Bucks stealing him away like the Bulls did with Ben. This team is done for if Chauncey leaves.

Edited June 12, 2007 by GoWings1905

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

I was worried about Billups going to the Bucks too, but now not that much because I think the Bucks will draft Mike Connoly from Ohio State. I think the only other teams that have enough for Billups is Memphis, Orlando, and LA Clippers. I really want Acie Law though....I think we end up with some kind of big guy though unless they know of a diamond in the rough they can get with their other first rounder, or 2nd round pick.

Joe D just said he doesn't expect any major changes to this team, but who knows what he is really thinking.

[timothy1997 0]

ESPN announced the rumor that the Suns might trade Shawn Marion to the Pistons for Rasheed and draft pick. What do you guys think?

I kinda like Marion as a player and he would fit nicely here.

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

ESPN announced the rumor that the Suns might trade Shawn Marion to the Pistons for Rasheed and draft pick. What do you guys think?

I kinda like Marion as a player and he would fit nicely here.

I heard that too. I like the idea. I love Sheed, but the Pistons need to do something. How old is Marion anyway?

[GoWings1905 2,694]

ESPN announced the rumor that the Suns might trade Shawn Marion to the Pistons for Rasheed and draft pick. What do you guys think?

I kinda like Marion as a player and he would fit nicely here.

I have heard this rumor come up quite a bit lately, but I still can't see it happening. I would love to have Shawn Marion come here. He would instantly turn around the Pistons frontcourt woes by giving them an athletic big man that can score and he is also a very underrated defender. I just don't see anyway the Suns will take Rasheed though. There is no way Rasheed is an upgrade over Marion at this point in their careers, especially on a team that plays like Phoenix does. It may take Tay or Rip instead of Rasheed to get Marion. If somehow the Suns go for this trade, even if it means the Pistons giving up the 15th pick in the draft, it would be a major steal. Joe D. has made some big-time trades before, but I would be shocked if he could pull this one off. If Marion comes here, and the Pistons can upgrade their bench this summer, that would put them back in legitimate championship contention. I doubt even Flip Saunders could mess that up.

To answer your question, Marion is 29 years old.

Edited June 12, 2007 by GoWings1905

[mannysBETTER3434 1]

I actually think the Suns would be intrested in Sheed. Teams finally saw what Sheed can do when you keep him under control. Larry Brown was perfect for him. He sparks a team in a way no other player can (both good and bad). The Suns keep flopping in the playoffs, and may think they need that unpredictable spark that Sheed brings.

[GoWings1905 2,694]

Watching the Finals is killing me. How did the Pistons lose four straight to the Cavs? They have no business being there. I don't think the Pistons would have beaten the Spurs, but it would have at least been a series. This is so disappointing. I still can't believe they lost.

[Aussie_Wing 354]

Worst NBA Finals ever. The Cavs are going to be swept. Nice one, Pistons.

[GoWings1905 2,694]

I'm now almost ashamed that the Pistons got beat by the Cavs. They are a disgrace to the Eastern Conference and the Finals. If this series is not proof that Flip Saunders needs to be fired, I'm not sure anything will justify it.