Detroit Pistons: 5 takeaways from 2017-18 Media Day

The Detroit Pistons kicked off the 2017-18 season with their annual Media Day. Here are five takeaways from the event.

NBA Media Day is a day of optimism and hope for every team. The slate is clean and every team, in theory, has a chance to win it all.  The opening of the Detroit Pistons‘ new home in downtown Detroit gives them even more reasons for optimism.

The Pistons are depending on a lot of moving pieces coming together to improve on last season’s 37-45 record. They need Andre Drummond to bounce back after injury hampered him last season. Rookie Luke Kennard spent time this summer improving his defense. Head coach Stan Van Gundy sees the potential for a big season from Stanley Johnson. The pieces in Detroit are falling into place.

All these warm and fuzzy feelings shrouded in optimism have the Pistons excited to get back to the basketball. The road to the playoffs started Monday with Media Day and Tuesday with the first day of training camp.

After a players only meeting in Las Vegas to get everyone on the same page, the Pistons and big man Andre Drummond are ready to go.

Van Gundy shared his excitement surrounding  the upcoming season. He shared his thoughts during the Pistons’ Media Day in Auburn HIlls.

"“There is excitement. I’m looking forward to this, I’m excited to get going. I just wanted to get to tomorrow and get out on the court with guys.”"

Check out these five takeaways from the Detroit Pistons’ Media Day 2017-18 to get you ready for training camp and the upcoming season.

 5. Social commentary

Van Gundy has never been one to shy away from controversy or from using his platform. Though San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich received most of the press for his comments regarding the NFL protests that came to a head over the weekend, SVG weighed in on the civil unrest in the country as well.

Van Gundy came to Media Day with a written statement, prepared to discuss the civil unrest taking place in the country. The statement covered his feelings and the Pistons’ position as an organization on social commentary and protest.

"“I stand with those opposing such bigotry as an individual and the Detroit Pistons as an organization support diversity, inclusion and equality. “I was proud of the statement that our owner Tom Gores released this morning. “Peaceful protest is a hallmark of our democracy and has been an impetus for social change throughout our history. The athletes involved in these protests should be respected for exercising their right of free speech in an appropriate and non-violent manner. I encourage our players to be engaged, involved citizens.”"

Given the current climate in the United States, Van Gundy’s comments might act as an appetizer for the team’s stance on social issues this season. After his remarks following the 2016 election, he knew he would be asked about the NFL protests and the President’s decision to rescind an invitation to the White House to the NBA Champion Golden State Warriors. He came prepared.