NBA: Ranking the teams in the Central Division for 2017-18

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3. Detroit Pistons

The Pistons are an interesting case. More than any other team, perhaps, they are stuck between a rock (not bad enough to tank) and a hard place (not good enough to make a playoff run). However, they may be closer to the former.

This summer, they questionably pulled their restricted free agent offer from Caldwell-Pope. This opened the door for him to sign with the Lakers on a one-year deal. With the newly created void at the shooting guard position, the Pistons traded for Avery Bradley. He will bring some much-needed defensive ability and toughness.

Luke Kennard is also an interesting player. The 12th pick of the draft has an opposing skill-set from Bradley. As an outside sharpshooter and questionable defender, his weaknesses are supplemented by Bradley’s strengths. This should allow them to play well together when sharing the floor.

A lot of their 2017-18 season will depend on the resurgence of Andre Drummond and Reggie Jackson. Both had a down 2016-17 campaign and their ability to bounce back as borderline All-Star caliber players will say a lot about the direction this team is headed.

Per 36 Minutes Table
Season	Age	Tm	Pos	G	FG%	3P%	TRB	AST	STL	TOV	PTS
2014-15	24	DET	PG	27	.436	.337	5.2	10.3	0.8	3.9	19.7
2015-16	25	DET	PG	79	.434	.353	3.8	7.3	0.9	3.3	22.1
2016-17	26	DET	PG	52	.419	.359	2.9	6.8	0.9	2.9	19.0

Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table

If they aren’t able to return to form, they may opt to blow this thing up and start from scratch. However, if no moves are made, expect the Pistons to come extremely close to their win total from last season.