Detroit Pistons: Best-case, worst-case scenarios for every player

Centers

Andre Drummond (15.0 points, 16.0 rebounds, 1.5 steals, 1.6 blocks)

Best case: For the third time in four years, Drummond leads the NBA in rebounding. He makes his third All-Star Game appearance and makes his second All-NBA team. Griffin is Detroit’s leading scorer and most popular player, but Drummond is the MVP and heart and soul of the squad.

Having added range to his jump shot, he becomes a 3-point threat and an all-around problem for any opponent. The Pistons make the playoffs led by Drummond and Griffin, the best interior duo in the league.

Worst case: Last season’s dramatic improvement at the free-throw line was a fluke, and Drummond slides back into being one of the league’s “Hack-A-Player” candidates.

His new infatuation with the 3-pointer takes him away from the basket too often, and Detroit doesn’t capitalize enough on having the NBA’s best rebounder on their side.

Losing his status as the No. 1 guy in Detroit to Griffin messes with Drummond’s head, and he becomes a locker-room problem.

Zaza Pachulia (5.4 points, 4.7 rebounds)

Best case: Zaza’s toughness, IQ and championship experience are even more vital to the Pistons than his scoring, rebounding or defense. He is the true backup center that Drummond didn’t have last season and contributes to one of the East’s better teams.

Worst case: Zaza doesn’t get much playing time. When he does, he proves too slow to keep up with opposing centers and his most notable impact is when he commits flagrant fouls.