Detroit Pistons: 5 keys to making the playoffs in 2017-18

1. Andre Drummond needs to take the reins and make the Pistons his team

Drummond played in three of the Pistons’ preseason games, averaging 16 points per game and 16 rebounds per game. Drummond’s preseason numbers have the fans excited about the center’s chances of returning to All-Star form.

If Drummond can pull together an All-Star caliber season, the Pistons’ chances of making the playoffs this year increase dramatically.

Vince Ellis of the Detroit Free Press talked to Drummond about his free throw shooting Monday after practice.

"“When I do get up there I feel like I’m making it every time and if I do miss, shake it off and shoot the same shot again without any hesitation.”"

Drummond focused on improving his free throw percentage during the summer. Drummond was 16-for-20 from the charity stripe this preseason.

Drummond credits returning to a trainer from his youth in the offseason.

"“Lock-in and focus are the words I use,” Drummond said earlier this month. “When I get to the line, I just shoot the shot. It’s something I worked on every single day this summer and I’m just trying to be consistent with it.”"

Drummond’s newfound confidence at the line could lead to better defensive play. In the past, the center has appeared almost timid under the basket, possibly out of apprehension.

Next: 2017-18 NBA season previews, predictions and power rankings

Physical, defensive players draw fouls, but drawing fouls is a detriment to the team if you can’t execute.