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Is Stan Van Gundy The Man To Fix The Detroit Pistons?

By Adam McGee

Mar 28, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons mascot Hooper fires up the crowd before the game against the Miami Heat at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 28, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons mascot Hooper fires up the crowd before the game against the Miami Heat at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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 Steadying Point Guard Influence

Dec 27, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Detroit Pistons point guard Brandon Jennings (7) dribbles the ball as Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson (14) defends during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons 109-92. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Detroit Pistons point guard Brandon Jennings (7) dribbles the ball as Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson (14) defends during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons 109-92. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

This is something which is quite rare for successful coaches in the modern era, but Van Gundy thrived without the presence of, what could be termed as “star” point guards. It seems much more important to SVG that his point guard offers a calming influence, committing few turnovers, knocking down open shots, and generally playing intelligent basketball.

This is what he got from the likes of Rafer Alston and Damon Jones in Miami, and of course, Jameer Nelson in Orlando. Current Pistons point guard Brandon Jennings has considerably more talent than the aforementioned players, but he is also significantly more erratic. For much of his NBA career, Jennings has proven to be the antithesis of a calming influence, but if Van Gundy can teach him to be more disciplined, he could still become a top class player.

Jennings will have to learn that the simple pass is sometimes the best pass, and get used to the pick and roll, a favorite play of SVG.

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