Detroit Pistons: 3 takeaways from 2018-19 Media Day

1. Reggie Jackson may not be ready to start the year

Last season, Reggie Jackson dealt with a couple different injuries that caused him to miss nearly half of the season. Following ankle surgery, the hope was that he would be fully healthy, and, while a recent MRI showed a perfectly healthy ankle, the team is being cautious while they bring him back. Jackson is the engine that makes this team go. He is also a big candidate in trade talks as the team is looking to get younger and free up cap space.

On Monday, the team announced that, while he will participate in training camp, he might not be ready to go for the opening night on Oct. 17. Jackson has never played all 82 games in a season, and he has only cracked 70 four times in his seven-year career. While this is over 50 percent, it’s a safe bet that his body will continue to falter as he gets older. A lot of his game is based on athleticism, but this injury may sap him of that little extra burst he needs.

While Jackson isn’t expected to be out for an extended period, it’s concerning that he is expected to miss time after a full offseason to recover and get ready for the season. Casey will likely give him a few nights throughout the season for rest, but at only 28 years old, how much of a concern is it that he is already requiring this rest? Jackson is a key part of this Pistons team, and if he starts missing too much time, he might find himself wearing a new uniform before the season is over.