Steve St-Pierre
Sports Writer
In Play! Magazine
sstpierre@inplaymagazine.com
The Pistons were hoping for a bit of luck in their second straight trip to the NBA Lottery. Unfortunately, it was bad luck that crept up on them as they were actually bumped down a spot and wound up with the No. 8 pick in this year's NBA Draft.
The 2011 NBA Draft, being held June 23 in New Jersey, is loaded with power forwards, making it likely that the Pistons go with somebody at that position to play alongside center Greg Monroe. Despite moving down a spot, Detroit is still expected to have plenty of big men to choose from.
The other possibility is that the Pistons take a point guard in the first round in hopes that a big man will slide to them in the second round. The Pistons have a hole right now at point guard since Rodney Stuckey and Tracy McGrady will be free agents this summer, leaving the team with just Will Bynum and Terrico White, who missed his entire rookie season last year due to injury.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Gores Leads Pistons’ Youth Movement
Gores Leads Pistons' Youth Movement
By Steve St-Pierre
The Pistons are committed to rebuilding around a youthful core. It begins at the top with Tom Gores, the franchise’s dynamic new owner.
Chairman and CEO of global investment firm Platinum Equity, Gores reached an agreement in early April with Karen Davidson, former Pistons Owner, to purchase the team along with The Palace of Auburn Hills, DTE Energy Music Theatre and the operating rights to Meadow Brook Music Festival. The deal was announced after several months of negotiations.
“We are pleased to welcome Tom Gores as the new owner of the Detroit Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment,” Davidson says. “Just as my late husband, Bill Davidson, was the face of the Pistons, I am confident that Tom will bring the same energy, dedication and love to this organization. I look forward to seeing Tom follow in Bill’s footsteps and carry on his legacy…we look forward to facilitating a smooth transition under Tom and achieving even greater success in the future.”
The deal is expected to be finalized by June 30, pending league approval and normal closing conditions.
“I’m excited,” says the 46-year-old Gores, who grew up near Flint. “‘Excited’ is not actually the right word. Ecstatic. I’m back in Michigan, where I grew up, and I appreciate everybody welcoming me back.”
Gores considers the opportunity to own the Pistons a dream come true and a chance to be a difference-maker.
“It’s interesting about dreams,” he says. “I mean, of course, I’ve always wanted to own a sports team, but it came together. Everything came together at the right time. I grew up with sports, but mostly I’m excited about inspiring the town.”
The plan is for Gores, once his ownership is completely finalized, to continue traveling between Detroit and Los Angeles. Yet, he vows to take an active role with the Pistons.
“I’ll be whatever owner this team needs and this franchise needs,” Gores says. “When they need me back, I’ll be back. I will be impactful, that’s for sure.
“I want us to be successful. I didn’t show up here to not be successful. (I’ll do) whatever it takes.”
Gores acknowledges that he will not be able to turn the organization around alone.
“This is a community asset,” he says. “This is not an asset that we’re gonna handle alone…we have to do this together. It is a true partnership.”
A number of challenges present themselves to Gores when it comes to improving this basketball team. He has several decisions to make, including the status of John Kuester, Pistons Head Coach, as well as the upcoming 2011 NBA Draft, which will be held June 23. His first task, though, is to meet face-to-face with Joe Dumars, Pistons President and GM.
“We’re in the learning process,” Gores says. “Joe is an amazing part of the Pistons organization, and we have to talk more, make sure we’re all on the same page, but he clearly is a part of this legacy…
“…We’re gonna learn first, so we’re not in decision-making mode. Are we afraid of change? Absolutely not. We’re ready for change, no problem. Sometimes you need change, but we’re gonna learn right now.”
Assuming Dumars remains with the organization, he and Gores will likely focus on the coaching situation. Very few believe Kuester will remain as head coach. Reports have already emerged that the team is considering both former Pistons legend Bill Laimbeer and former Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Woodson, a one-time assistant in Detroit, as possible replacements.
The 2011 NBA Draft Lottery will be held May 17. The Pistons have a 4.3 percent chance at landing the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft, though their best chances are at landing the No. 7 pick. They’re expected to take either a point guard or a power forward.
In the meantime, the sale of the franchise must be officially completed. Gores is thankful to the Davidson family for giving him the opportunity.
“I think Karen handled the situation really, really well,” he says. “Bill (Davidson) clearly built this house, and I have to build on it. I haven’t done anything yet.
“Bill did it all. He built the stadium, he built the team, he built the championships, and we have to go to work. Karen, I think, handled the situation beautifully, and all we want to do now is go to work and help the team, the Pistons organization, the community. All we’ve done is make a deal to buy the team, and we have to do more.”
To anybody who questions Gores’ loyalty towards the community and keeping the Pistons in Detroit, he insists he’s doing just that.
“Do you think I’m crazy? We’re here,” he says. “We’re here.”
Despite the organization’s question marks, its new owner remains optimistic he can turn things around for the Pistons.
“There’s a great, deep organization here that existed before us, and we need to make the most out of that,” Gores says. “This is not a culture you throw away. This is an unbelievable city. It’s an unbelievable organization.
“How long did Bill own the team? 30 some years, right? We need to take advantage of that, and I want to make Bill Davidson proud that we bought the team.”
By Steve St-Pierre
The Pistons are committed to rebuilding around a youthful core. It begins at the top with Tom Gores, the franchise’s dynamic new owner.Chairman and CEO of global investment firm Platinum Equity, Gores reached an agreement in early April with Karen Davidson, former Pistons Owner, to purchase the team along with The Palace of Auburn Hills, DTE Energy Music Theatre and the operating rights to Meadow Brook Music Festival. The deal was announced after several months of negotiations.
“We are pleased to welcome Tom Gores as the new owner of the Detroit Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment,” Davidson says. “Just as my late husband, Bill Davidson, was the face of the Pistons, I am confident that Tom will bring the same energy, dedication and love to this organization. I look forward to seeing Tom follow in Bill’s footsteps and carry on his legacy…we look forward to facilitating a smooth transition under Tom and achieving even greater success in the future.”
The deal is expected to be finalized by June 30, pending league approval and normal closing conditions.
“I’m excited,” says the 46-year-old Gores, who grew up near Flint. “‘Excited’ is not actually the right word. Ecstatic. I’m back in Michigan, where I grew up, and I appreciate everybody welcoming me back.”
Gores considers the opportunity to own the Pistons a dream come true and a chance to be a difference-maker.
“It’s interesting about dreams,” he says. “I mean, of course, I’ve always wanted to own a sports team, but it came together. Everything came together at the right time. I grew up with sports, but mostly I’m excited about inspiring the town.”
The plan is for Gores, once his ownership is completely finalized, to continue traveling between Detroit and Los Angeles. Yet, he vows to take an active role with the Pistons.
“I’ll be whatever owner this team needs and this franchise needs,” Gores says. “When they need me back, I’ll be back. I will be impactful, that’s for sure.
“I want us to be successful. I didn’t show up here to not be successful. (I’ll do) whatever it takes.”
Gores acknowledges that he will not be able to turn the organization around alone.
“This is a community asset,” he says. “This is not an asset that we’re gonna handle alone…we have to do this together. It is a true partnership.”
A number of challenges present themselves to Gores when it comes to improving this basketball team. He has several decisions to make, including the status of John Kuester, Pistons Head Coach, as well as the upcoming 2011 NBA Draft, which will be held June 23. His first task, though, is to meet face-to-face with Joe Dumars, Pistons President and GM.
“We’re in the learning process,” Gores says. “Joe is an amazing part of the Pistons organization, and we have to talk more, make sure we’re all on the same page, but he clearly is a part of this legacy…
“…We’re gonna learn first, so we’re not in decision-making mode. Are we afraid of change? Absolutely not. We’re ready for change, no problem. Sometimes you need change, but we’re gonna learn right now.”
Assuming Dumars remains with the organization, he and Gores will likely focus on the coaching situation. Very few believe Kuester will remain as head coach. Reports have already emerged that the team is considering both former Pistons legend Bill Laimbeer and former Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Woodson, a one-time assistant in Detroit, as possible replacements.
The 2011 NBA Draft Lottery will be held May 17. The Pistons have a 4.3 percent chance at landing the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft, though their best chances are at landing the No. 7 pick. They’re expected to take either a point guard or a power forward.
In the meantime, the sale of the franchise must be officially completed. Gores is thankful to the Davidson family for giving him the opportunity.
“I think Karen handled the situation really, really well,” he says. “Bill (Davidson) clearly built this house, and I have to build on it. I haven’t done anything yet.
“Bill did it all. He built the stadium, he built the team, he built the championships, and we have to go to work. Karen, I think, handled the situation beautifully, and all we want to do now is go to work and help the team, the Pistons organization, the community. All we’ve done is make a deal to buy the team, and we have to do more.”
To anybody who questions Gores’ loyalty towards the community and keeping the Pistons in Detroit, he insists he’s doing just that.
“Do you think I’m crazy? We’re here,” he says. “We’re here.”
Despite the organization’s question marks, its new owner remains optimistic he can turn things around for the Pistons.
“There’s a great, deep organization here that existed before us, and we need to make the most out of that,” Gores says. “This is not a culture you throw away. This is an unbelievable city. It’s an unbelievable organization.
“How long did Bill own the team? 30 some years, right? We need to take advantage of that, and I want to make Bill Davidson proud that we bought the team.”
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Pistons Miss Playoffs For Consecutive Season
Pistons Miss Playoffs For Consecutive Season
By Steve St-Pierre
For the second season in a row, the Pistons have missed the playoffs and will return to the NBA Draft Lottery in May. Last year, the team blamed its lack of success on injuries, but this time around it’s been everything else.
John Kuester, Pistons Head Coach, has struggled mightily this season to establish not only a set starting five but an entire rotation as well. Just about every player on the team received at least one DNP-CD (did not play, coach’s decision.) It’s led to a great amount of criticism from the media and heavy backlash from the players, some of whom have been very open about their feelings.
“Every game, I’m expecting not to play,” says reserve guard Will Bynum. “That’s how I’m approaching the game.”
At one point, rumors emerged that Kuester would be dismissed and replaced by Darrell Walker, current Pistons Assistant Coach. Instead, the team has opted to let Kuester finish the season. It’s been difficult for players to adjust to inconsistent playing time, but it’s something they’ve all had to do together as a team.
“Whatever (Kuester) decides, however long he decides to play me, I’m gonna take that and just try to produce as long as I’m out there,” says rookie center Greg Monroe.
“I’m not in control of minutes or when I play and don’t play,” Bynum adds. “All I control is being ready, and that’s what I try to do…it’s my job, man. It’s my job to be ready. It’s not to complain and pout, and I try to stay positive. When I’m out there, I try to make him regret not playing me.”
The coaching staff believes players haven’t worked hard enough in practice, leading to lackadaisical performances during games.
“We’ve got to get out of the habit of playing a good game and then not playing as well the next game or getting off this rollercoaster…” Kuester says. “…It’s the same old story. When we make shots and we defend better, things look so much better for us.”
Though the team has been relatively healthy this season, the Pistons have had to cope with the loss of forward Jonas Jerebko, a promising rookie last season who has missed his entire sophomore campaign after straining his right Achilles’ tendon during the first preseason game. He is set to become a restricted free agent this summer but has said he expects to stay in Detroit for the foreseeable future.
Unfortunately, the future remains murky for this organization and the NBA as a whole. The NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement is set to expire June 30, and much like the NFL, players and owners are arguing over the possibility of cutting salaries. If the two sides don’t reach a new agreement by July, the NBA will also enter a lockout that could stretch into next season. As a result, it’s become impossible for teams to truly plan a strategy for free agency this summer.
Furthermore, the Pistons have their own issues at hand. The team is still in the process of being sold, leading to speculation that the front office has essentially been frozen from making any transactions. In fact, Detroit has not made one transaction since the start of the season.
The pending expiration of the league’s CBA will have no direct impact on the upcoming 2011 NBA Draft, which is being held June 23. Therefore, the draft is likely going to be the Pistons’ only way of improving their roster in the near future. If a coaching change is going to be made, it should be completed as soon as possible. Yet, even that might not be possible as current ownership would have to approve the hiring of a new coaching staff, which probably isn’t a top priority for them at this time.
For now, the Pistons will continue to prepare for a lottery pick in the draft. Based on how many games they lose down the stretch, they could wind up at or around a top-five selection. The lottery itself gives Detroit – and every non-playoff team – a shot at one of the top three picks.
If the Pistons are stuck with their current roster, they’ll have plenty of holes to fill once all front-office restrictions are lifted. The only real asset the team has at this point is Monroe, who’s been one of the best rookies in the NBA all season.
“He’s just so doggone active,” Kuester says about his rookie big man. “For a guy that I think a lot of us early on said, ‘How is he going to rebound?’ we’re finding out that he can rebound with anybody.”
Rebounding is only part of the package. Monroe has been an extremely consistent scorer and passer in the post, something Detroit hasn’t had in years. He has the ability to play both power forward and center, and best of all, he’s brought an extremely rare positive attitude to the Pistons’ locker room.
“To me, every win is important to us right now,” Monroe says. “We’re trying to win every game.”
Besides Monroe, the only players under contract after this season are Bynum, Rip Hamilton, Ben Wallace, Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva, Austin Daye, Jason Maxiell and rookie Terrico White. Wallace could opt to retire, especially if there’s a lockout next season. That leaves either Hamilton or Gordon likely penciled in as a starter at shooting guard with Monroe, but the team will have holes at point guard and small forward as well as either power forward or center, depending on where Monroe plays.
The hope is that Gordon and Villanueva, who signed long-term contracts with Detroit in the summer of 2009 totaling $90 million, can finally establish themselves as fixtures in the team’s rotation. For that to happen, the coach needs to commit to both players in the lineup, with Gordon solidifying the two-guard spot and Villanueva playing power forward alongside Monroe. If the team assumes it will have no trouble keeping Jerebko, he could take over the small forward position.
That leaves a hole at point guard. Bynum has played effectively at the position, but he’s by no means a legitimate starter at this time. Rodney Stuckey, a combo guard who has been groomed for the position his entire career, hasn’t been able to keep the starting job and is also set to become a restricted free agent this summer. There are those who still believe Stuckey can play the position.
“(Stuckey’s) been terrific for us,” Villanueva says. “He’s pushing the basketball, and he’s been making the right plays. He’s been scoring a lot of points. Rodney’s a tremendous player.”
Yet, Kuester hasn’t trusted Stuckey at the position. Perhaps it’s an area the team can focus on for the upcoming draft. Then again, there aren’t many clear-cut point guards available this year.
The Pistons certainly have their hands full this off-season. It remains to be seen just how much ability they’ll have in order to fix the roster. Until then, fans are going to have a hard time believing things will improve for this organization.
By Steve St-Pierre
For the second season in a row, the Pistons have missed the playoffs and will return to the NBA Draft Lottery in May. Last year, the team blamed its lack of success on injuries, but this time around it’s been everything else.John Kuester, Pistons Head Coach, has struggled mightily this season to establish not only a set starting five but an entire rotation as well. Just about every player on the team received at least one DNP-CD (did not play, coach’s decision.) It’s led to a great amount of criticism from the media and heavy backlash from the players, some of whom have been very open about their feelings.
“Every game, I’m expecting not to play,” says reserve guard Will Bynum. “That’s how I’m approaching the game.”
At one point, rumors emerged that Kuester would be dismissed and replaced by Darrell Walker, current Pistons Assistant Coach. Instead, the team has opted to let Kuester finish the season. It’s been difficult for players to adjust to inconsistent playing time, but it’s something they’ve all had to do together as a team.
“Whatever (Kuester) decides, however long he decides to play me, I’m gonna take that and just try to produce as long as I’m out there,” says rookie center Greg Monroe.
“I’m not in control of minutes or when I play and don’t play,” Bynum adds. “All I control is being ready, and that’s what I try to do…it’s my job, man. It’s my job to be ready. It’s not to complain and pout, and I try to stay positive. When I’m out there, I try to make him regret not playing me.”
The coaching staff believes players haven’t worked hard enough in practice, leading to lackadaisical performances during games.
“We’ve got to get out of the habit of playing a good game and then not playing as well the next game or getting off this rollercoaster…” Kuester says. “…It’s the same old story. When we make shots and we defend better, things look so much better for us.”
Though the team has been relatively healthy this season, the Pistons have had to cope with the loss of forward Jonas Jerebko, a promising rookie last season who has missed his entire sophomore campaign after straining his right Achilles’ tendon during the first preseason game. He is set to become a restricted free agent this summer but has said he expects to stay in Detroit for the foreseeable future.
Unfortunately, the future remains murky for this organization and the NBA as a whole. The NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement is set to expire June 30, and much like the NFL, players and owners are arguing over the possibility of cutting salaries. If the two sides don’t reach a new agreement by July, the NBA will also enter a lockout that could stretch into next season. As a result, it’s become impossible for teams to truly plan a strategy for free agency this summer.
Furthermore, the Pistons have their own issues at hand. The team is still in the process of being sold, leading to speculation that the front office has essentially been frozen from making any transactions. In fact, Detroit has not made one transaction since the start of the season.
The pending expiration of the league’s CBA will have no direct impact on the upcoming 2011 NBA Draft, which is being held June 23. Therefore, the draft is likely going to be the Pistons’ only way of improving their roster in the near future. If a coaching change is going to be made, it should be completed as soon as possible. Yet, even that might not be possible as current ownership would have to approve the hiring of a new coaching staff, which probably isn’t a top priority for them at this time.
For now, the Pistons will continue to prepare for a lottery pick in the draft. Based on how many games they lose down the stretch, they could wind up at or around a top-five selection. The lottery itself gives Detroit – and every non-playoff team – a shot at one of the top three picks.
If the Pistons are stuck with their current roster, they’ll have plenty of holes to fill once all front-office restrictions are lifted. The only real asset the team has at this point is Monroe, who’s been one of the best rookies in the NBA all season.
“He’s just so doggone active,” Kuester says about his rookie big man. “For a guy that I think a lot of us early on said, ‘How is he going to rebound?’ we’re finding out that he can rebound with anybody.”
Rebounding is only part of the package. Monroe has been an extremely consistent scorer and passer in the post, something Detroit hasn’t had in years. He has the ability to play both power forward and center, and best of all, he’s brought an extremely rare positive attitude to the Pistons’ locker room.
“To me, every win is important to us right now,” Monroe says. “We’re trying to win every game.”
Besides Monroe, the only players under contract after this season are Bynum, Rip Hamilton, Ben Wallace, Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva, Austin Daye, Jason Maxiell and rookie Terrico White. Wallace could opt to retire, especially if there’s a lockout next season. That leaves either Hamilton or Gordon likely penciled in as a starter at shooting guard with Monroe, but the team will have holes at point guard and small forward as well as either power forward or center, depending on where Monroe plays.
The hope is that Gordon and Villanueva, who signed long-term contracts with Detroit in the summer of 2009 totaling $90 million, can finally establish themselves as fixtures in the team’s rotation. For that to happen, the coach needs to commit to both players in the lineup, with Gordon solidifying the two-guard spot and Villanueva playing power forward alongside Monroe. If the team assumes it will have no trouble keeping Jerebko, he could take over the small forward position.
That leaves a hole at point guard. Bynum has played effectively at the position, but he’s by no means a legitimate starter at this time. Rodney Stuckey, a combo guard who has been groomed for the position his entire career, hasn’t been able to keep the starting job and is also set to become a restricted free agent this summer. There are those who still believe Stuckey can play the position.
“(Stuckey’s) been terrific for us,” Villanueva says. “He’s pushing the basketball, and he’s been making the right plays. He’s been scoring a lot of points. Rodney’s a tremendous player.”
Yet, Kuester hasn’t trusted Stuckey at the position. Perhaps it’s an area the team can focus on for the upcoming draft. Then again, there aren’t many clear-cut point guards available this year.
The Pistons certainly have their hands full this off-season. It remains to be seen just how much ability they’ll have in order to fix the roster. Until then, fans are going to have a hard time believing things will improve for this organization.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
PISTONS CARE TELETHON RAISES MORE THAN $350,000
In Play Magazine
DETROIT PISTONS CARE TELETHON RAISES
MORE THAN $350,000 FOR BOYS & GIRLS clUBS IN MICHIGAN
The 2011 Pistons Care Telethon, which culminated in an 18-hour donation drive and telecast of the team’s game on March 18, raised $351,110 in pledges to benefit Boys & Girls Clubs in Michigan with net proceeds being distributed amongst the 35 Boys & Girls Club locations across the state of Michigan. The pledge total will fund over 7,000 Boys & Girls Club annual memberships as well as support the cost of programming for youth in need.
Although the Telethon took place on March 18, there is still opportunity to support the Boys & Girls Clubs in Michigan. Pistons fans can visit pistons.com and click on the red “Charity Auctions” link through March 29 to donate via an online auction of 10 unique Pistons experiences and memorabilia including two hours of play to host a pick-up game with friends on the official Pistons court; golf for two with Pistons forward Jonas Jerebko and two signed Jerebko jerseys; an opportunity for a group of three to play video games against Greg Monroe in the Pistons locker room; a meet and greet with former Pistons “Bad Boy” Dennis Rodman including four lower-bowl tickets to the April 1 Pistons vs. Chicago game in which Rodman’s jersey will be retired; and a trip for two on the Pistons team plane to a road game which includes two lower-bowl tickets and accommodations at the team hotel.
Additional online auction items include an autographed Joe Dumars basketball; a limited edition autographed Rodney Stuckey jersey; a meet and greet with Tracy McGrady including two press row tickets to a future game; a meet and greet with Joe Dumars including two press row tickets to a future game; and even an opportunity to sit courtside with Greg Kelser and George Blaha during one of their in-game broadcasts including an on-air mention, two lower-level tickets and a George Blaha and Greg Kelser autographed basketball.
“Exemplifying the true spirit of teamwork, our fans and sponsors have rallied together to help raise funds for thousands of children who will be given the mentoring and guidance to succeed.” said Alan Ostfield, President & CEO of the Pistons and PS&E. “The Pistons and Boys & Girls Clubs look forward to teaming up to implement Telethon funds to the 35 Club locations statewide throughout the calendar year.”
“The Pistons players and the entire Pistons Sports & Entertainment family went above and beyond for Boys & Girls Clubs across the state. Their leadership will help provide brighter futures for many children.” said, Len Krichko, President & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan.
Entertainers including Bob Seger, Kid Rock, Eminem, Rihanna, Usher and Jimmy Buffett supported the event.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Pistons Pass On Trades, Move Past Alleged Protest
Pistons Pass On Trades, Move Past Alleged Protest
By Steve St-Pierre
An already difficult season for the Pistons took a turn for the worst in late February when several Detroit players allegedly orchestrated a player protest, skipping a pregame shootaround. The organization has gone at great lengths to deny the allegations and move past the ugly occurrence.
The incident took place following the NBA’s trade deadline. According to various reports, the Pistons negotiated two separate deals involving veterans Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince.
The Dallas Mavericks, interested in acquiring Prince, offered Detroit the expiring contract of injured forward Caron Butler along with their 2011 first-round draft pick. Joe Dumars, Pistons President, allegedly passed on the deal because he wasn’t interested in swapping expiring contracts – Prince is also a free agent this summer – or acquiring Dallas’ pick, which is expected to be in the late 20’s overall. Likewise, Dumars wants to keep his options open with Prince, looking to either keep him this offseason or sign-and-trade him in a more beneficial deal.
Reportedly, the Pistons agreed to send Hamilton to the Cleveland Cavaliers along with a lottery-protected 2012 first-round pick in exchange for a $12.6 million trade exception and a second-round pick. Hamilton allegedly made it clear he did not want to play for the league’s last-place team, so the Cavs discussed a contract buyout that would have paid Hamilton $18 million of the $25 million left on his contract and allowed him to sign with any other team.
Supposedly, Hamilton passed on the offer, perhaps hoping the Pistons will be purchased soon by a new owner, opening up the possibility of a higher buyout.
With frustration building throughout the Pistons’ locker room, several players apparently decided to take their frustrations out on John Kuester, Pistons Head Coach, by boycotting the shootaround. The players accused of participating in the protest include Hamilton, Prince, Tracy McGrady, Chris Wilcox, Rodney Stuckey and Austin Daye.
The organization has denied the allegations, vouching for each player. According to the Pistons, Prince and McGrady were excused due to illness, Wilcox overslept, and Stuckey and Daye showed up towards the end of shootaround due to a mix-up.
Hamilton, though he was unexcused, apologized to Kuester. The two had been at odds since Hamilton was benched early in the season in favor of McGrady. For the time being, it appears that Kuester has flip-flopped the two in his rotation, opting to play Hamilton and sit McGrady. Hamilton has been coming off the bench, with Stuckey moving back to point guard and Ben Gordon starting at shooting guard.
Additionally, Ben Wallace missed shootaround the day of the protest but has been excused from the team to deal with the death of his brother. As a result, Daye and Wilcox have been starting at the forward positions alongside rookie center Greg Monroe. In an effort to move forward from the so-called shootaround shun, the Pistons quietly issued fines for Hamilton, Wilcox, Stuckey and Daye.
“We’ve had a lot of interesting things happen to our team…” Kuester says. “…This is an emotional game, a passionate game, and my goal as a coach was always – and will always be – to get the maximum potential out of players.
“I always go back to Ben Wallace saying ‘Players aren’t going to like coaches, coaches aren’t going to like players, (and that’s) the way it is.’ I just want the maximum potential out of these guys.”
As of now, Daye has been the only player to open up about missing shootaround.
“For me, personally, I have no problem with Coach,” Daye says. “He’s been playing me, so why would I protest someone that’s playing me?”
Daye stands by the Pistons’ explanation of what occurred and acknowledges it was his fault.
“That’s why I got punished,” he says. “You make a mistake, and you learn from it…trust me, if I could’ve been on time, I would have…it’s a mistake I’ll never make again, and I apologize to Pistons fans and the Pistons family for being late.”
Dumars, who’s known for shying away from the media, issued a statement to voice his support for Kuester. The players understand why Dumars carefully picks and chooses when to speak out.
“If he feels that something needs to come up and something needs to happen, he’s going to do it because he’s the head honcho around here,” Daye says. “And we all respect him.”
Despite the negative that’s come out of this season, the Pistons have had some positive highlights as well. For example, the players who did not protest against the coach have benefited by staying on the floor and continuing to develop for the future.
“That’s what it’s all about, getting an opportunity and taking advantage of it,” Kuester says. “One of the things that happens in this league is that no one is entitled to anything. The big thing about respect and earning respect, you earn that every day. You don’t earn it on the past. You earn it on how you work every day and how you react to things every day, and that’s how you earn respect.”
“I’m here to play basketball,” Monroe adds. “That’s my job, and that’s what I’m going to do.
Though the odds are against them, the Pistons believe they have enough in them this season for a playoff push. However, they know it’s going to require a commitment from the entire team.
“We have a lot of maturity, and I think Greg Monroe has benefited a lot from Ben Wallace,” Kuester says. “I think Austin Daye has benefited a lot from Tayshaun Prince. I think Tracy McGrady has done some things to help our young players too.”
“Of course, those guys are a big part of our team,” adds Monroe. “They’ve been a big part of this franchise for a long time.”
Despite the constant backlash from his players and the rumors of his eventual dismissal, Kuester maintains confidence in his team.
“This isn’t about coaching,” Kuester explains. “This is about players, and this is about them wanting to win.
“Sometimes, you’re not going to execute the right way or do things the right way. But when you play with energy and play with intelligence…good things will happen.”
By Steve St-Pierre
An already difficult season for the Pistons took a turn for the worst in late February when several Detroit players allegedly orchestrated a player protest, skipping a pregame shootaround. The organization has gone at great lengths to deny the allegations and move past the ugly occurrence.The incident took place following the NBA’s trade deadline. According to various reports, the Pistons negotiated two separate deals involving veterans Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince.
The Dallas Mavericks, interested in acquiring Prince, offered Detroit the expiring contract of injured forward Caron Butler along with their 2011 first-round draft pick. Joe Dumars, Pistons President, allegedly passed on the deal because he wasn’t interested in swapping expiring contracts – Prince is also a free agent this summer – or acquiring Dallas’ pick, which is expected to be in the late 20’s overall. Likewise, Dumars wants to keep his options open with Prince, looking to either keep him this offseason or sign-and-trade him in a more beneficial deal.
Reportedly, the Pistons agreed to send Hamilton to the Cleveland Cavaliers along with a lottery-protected 2012 first-round pick in exchange for a $12.6 million trade exception and a second-round pick. Hamilton allegedly made it clear he did not want to play for the league’s last-place team, so the Cavs discussed a contract buyout that would have paid Hamilton $18 million of the $25 million left on his contract and allowed him to sign with any other team.
Supposedly, Hamilton passed on the offer, perhaps hoping the Pistons will be purchased soon by a new owner, opening up the possibility of a higher buyout.
With frustration building throughout the Pistons’ locker room, several players apparently decided to take their frustrations out on John Kuester, Pistons Head Coach, by boycotting the shootaround. The players accused of participating in the protest include Hamilton, Prince, Tracy McGrady, Chris Wilcox, Rodney Stuckey and Austin Daye.
The organization has denied the allegations, vouching for each player. According to the Pistons, Prince and McGrady were excused due to illness, Wilcox overslept, and Stuckey and Daye showed up towards the end of shootaround due to a mix-up.
Hamilton, though he was unexcused, apologized to Kuester. The two had been at odds since Hamilton was benched early in the season in favor of McGrady. For the time being, it appears that Kuester has flip-flopped the two in his rotation, opting to play Hamilton and sit McGrady. Hamilton has been coming off the bench, with Stuckey moving back to point guard and Ben Gordon starting at shooting guard.
Additionally, Ben Wallace missed shootaround the day of the protest but has been excused from the team to deal with the death of his brother. As a result, Daye and Wilcox have been starting at the forward positions alongside rookie center Greg Monroe. In an effort to move forward from the so-called shootaround shun, the Pistons quietly issued fines for Hamilton, Wilcox, Stuckey and Daye.
“We’ve had a lot of interesting things happen to our team…” Kuester says. “…This is an emotional game, a passionate game, and my goal as a coach was always – and will always be – to get the maximum potential out of players.
“I always go back to Ben Wallace saying ‘Players aren’t going to like coaches, coaches aren’t going to like players, (and that’s) the way it is.’ I just want the maximum potential out of these guys.”
As of now, Daye has been the only player to open up about missing shootaround.
“For me, personally, I have no problem with Coach,” Daye says. “He’s been playing me, so why would I protest someone that’s playing me?”
Daye stands by the Pistons’ explanation of what occurred and acknowledges it was his fault.
“That’s why I got punished,” he says. “You make a mistake, and you learn from it…trust me, if I could’ve been on time, I would have…it’s a mistake I’ll never make again, and I apologize to Pistons fans and the Pistons family for being late.”
Dumars, who’s known for shying away from the media, issued a statement to voice his support for Kuester. The players understand why Dumars carefully picks and chooses when to speak out.
“If he feels that something needs to come up and something needs to happen, he’s going to do it because he’s the head honcho around here,” Daye says. “And we all respect him.”
Despite the negative that’s come out of this season, the Pistons have had some positive highlights as well. For example, the players who did not protest against the coach have benefited by staying on the floor and continuing to develop for the future.
“That’s what it’s all about, getting an opportunity and taking advantage of it,” Kuester says. “One of the things that happens in this league is that no one is entitled to anything. The big thing about respect and earning respect, you earn that every day. You don’t earn it on the past. You earn it on how you work every day and how you react to things every day, and that’s how you earn respect.”
“I’m here to play basketball,” Monroe adds. “That’s my job, and that’s what I’m going to do.
Though the odds are against them, the Pistons believe they have enough in them this season for a playoff push. However, they know it’s going to require a commitment from the entire team.
“We have a lot of maturity, and I think Greg Monroe has benefited a lot from Ben Wallace,” Kuester says. “I think Austin Daye has benefited a lot from Tayshaun Prince. I think Tracy McGrady has done some things to help our young players too.”
“Of course, those guys are a big part of our team,” adds Monroe. “They’ve been a big part of this franchise for a long time.”
Despite the constant backlash from his players and the rumors of his eventual dismissal, Kuester maintains confidence in his team.
“This isn’t about coaching,” Kuester explains. “This is about players, and this is about them wanting to win.
“Sometimes, you’re not going to execute the right way or do things the right way. But when you play with energy and play with intelligence…good things will happen.”
Monday, February 28, 2011
STATEMENT FROM PISTONS PRESIDENT OF BASKETBALL OPERATIONS JOE DUMARS
In Play Magazine
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The following statement was released this afternoon by President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars.
“First of all, John Kuester has my full support as we try to make a push towards the postseason over these last 21 games. We’ve had a long and proud history of being a first class organization that handles its business the right way. We expect everyone that represents the Detroit Pistons to do so in a first class manner and that will continue as we move forward.”
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The following statement was released this afternoon by President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars.
“First of all, John Kuester has my full support as we try to make a push towards the postseason over these last 21 games. We’ve had a long and proud history of being a first class organization that handles its business the right way. We expect everyone that represents the Detroit Pistons to do so in a first class manner and that will continue as we move forward.”
Friday, February 11, 2011
DETROIT PISTONS TO RETIRE DENNIS RODMAN’S #10 JERSEY
In Play Magazine
Forward Helped The Pistons Win Back-to-Back NBA Championships
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons announced today that the club will retire Dennis Rodman’s #10 jersey during a halftime ceremony on April 1, 2011 when the Pistons host the Chicago Bulls at The Palace of Auburn Hills.
“I’m pleased that we are honoring Dennis for his accomplishments as a player and his contributions to the success of the organization,” said Joe Dumars, President of Basketball Operations for the Pistons. “His jersey retirement is well deserved.”
Drafted 27th overall by the Pistons in the 1986 NBA Draft, Rodman was a key member of the Pistons ‘Bad Boys’ teams that led the franchise to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990. An elite defender and rebounder, he averaged 8.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists while shooting 54 percent from the field in 549 games as a Piston. Rodman led Detroit in rebounding four consecutive seasons (1989-1993) and was the league’s top rebounder from 1991-93 when he averaged 18.7 and 18.3 rebounds per game, respectively. He was a two-time NBA All-Star while playing for Detroit (1990, 1992) and was named to the All-NBA Third Team following the 1991-92 season. Rodman was named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year in 1990 and 1991 and was also named to the NBA All-Defensive first team for five consecutive seasons (1989-93).
“Individual accomplishments have never been a big deal for me as a player, but to be honored for my contributions in this way by the Detroit Pistons organization is truly humbling,” Rodman said in a statement issued through his manager, Steven Simon of Prince Marketing Group. “This organization gave me a chance to blossom regardless of my size or what school I came from. My only regret is that the man that believed in me more than I did myself, Chuck Daly, is no longer with us. I’m sure he’ll be with us that evening in his own way.”
The 6-7, 210-pound forward, nicknamed “The Worm” during his playing days, ranks fourth among all-time franchise leaders in total rebounds (6,299) and still holds team records for most rebounds in a game [34, vs. Indiana (3/4/92)], most offensive rebounds in a game [18, vs. Indiana (3/4/92)], most defensive rebounds in a game [22, at Sacramento (3/14/92)] and most games with 25-plus rebounds (15). He also recorded 30 or more rebounds three times and holds the team record for highest field goal percentage in one season at 59.5 percent (1988-89).
Rodman was traded to the San Antonio Spurs on October 1, 1993 and also played with the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks. He played a key role in the Bulls’ three consecutive championships from 1996-1998 and holds the NBA records for most consecutive seasons leading the league in rebounds [7, (1991-97)] and most seasons leading the league in defensive rebounds [3, (91-92, 93-94, 97-98)]. Rodman picked up two more NBA All-Defensive First Team honors after leaving Detroit (1995, 1996), a NBA Second-Team All-Defensive honor in 1994 and an All-NBA Third Team honor in 1995. Overall, he played in 911 career NBA games averaging 7.3 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 31.7 minutes per game.
“We are excited to welcome Dennis Rodman back to The Palace and honor him with his jersey retirement,” said Alan Ostfield, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment. “We look forward to hosting an exciting evening for Dennis as well as our fans.”
Forward Helped The Pistons Win Back-to-Back NBA Championships
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons announced today that the club will retire Dennis Rodman’s #10 jersey during a halftime ceremony on April 1, 2011 when the Pistons host the Chicago Bulls at The Palace of Auburn Hills.
“I’m pleased that we are honoring Dennis for his accomplishments as a player and his contributions to the success of the organization,” said Joe Dumars, President of Basketball Operations for the Pistons. “His jersey retirement is well deserved.”
Drafted 27th overall by the Pistons in the 1986 NBA Draft, Rodman was a key member of the Pistons ‘Bad Boys’ teams that led the franchise to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990. An elite defender and rebounder, he averaged 8.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists while shooting 54 percent from the field in 549 games as a Piston. Rodman led Detroit in rebounding four consecutive seasons (1989-1993) and was the league’s top rebounder from 1991-93 when he averaged 18.7 and 18.3 rebounds per game, respectively. He was a two-time NBA All-Star while playing for Detroit (1990, 1992) and was named to the All-NBA Third Team following the 1991-92 season. Rodman was named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year in 1990 and 1991 and was also named to the NBA All-Defensive first team for five consecutive seasons (1989-93).
“Individual accomplishments have never been a big deal for me as a player, but to be honored for my contributions in this way by the Detroit Pistons organization is truly humbling,” Rodman said in a statement issued through his manager, Steven Simon of Prince Marketing Group. “This organization gave me a chance to blossom regardless of my size or what school I came from. My only regret is that the man that believed in me more than I did myself, Chuck Daly, is no longer with us. I’m sure he’ll be with us that evening in his own way.”
The 6-7, 210-pound forward, nicknamed “The Worm” during his playing days, ranks fourth among all-time franchise leaders in total rebounds (6,299) and still holds team records for most rebounds in a game [34, vs. Indiana (3/4/92)], most offensive rebounds in a game [18, vs. Indiana (3/4/92)], most defensive rebounds in a game [22, at Sacramento (3/14/92)] and most games with 25-plus rebounds (15). He also recorded 30 or more rebounds three times and holds the team record for highest field goal percentage in one season at 59.5 percent (1988-89).
Rodman was traded to the San Antonio Spurs on October 1, 1993 and also played with the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks. He played a key role in the Bulls’ three consecutive championships from 1996-1998 and holds the NBA records for most consecutive seasons leading the league in rebounds [7, (1991-97)] and most seasons leading the league in defensive rebounds [3, (91-92, 93-94, 97-98)]. Rodman picked up two more NBA All-Defensive First Team honors after leaving Detroit (1995, 1996), a NBA Second-Team All-Defensive honor in 1994 and an All-NBA Third Team honor in 1995. Overall, he played in 911 career NBA games averaging 7.3 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 31.7 minutes per game.
“We are excited to welcome Dennis Rodman back to The Palace and honor him with his jersey retirement,” said Alan Ostfield, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment. “We look forward to hosting an exciting evening for Dennis as well as our fans.”
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