Detroit Pistons: Post-trade deadline stretch run outlook
By Corey Rausch
What’s next for Reggie Jackson?
Reggie Jackson became the longest-tenured Piston when the team moved on from Andre Drummond at the trade deadline. Both players had polarizing tenures with the team and it seems the oft-injured guard’s time may be winding down soon after the former All-Stars. Whether it be via buyout before March 1 or at the end of the season, Reggie Jackson will likely not be in the Motor City much longer.
Since returning from his injury this season he has been the consummate professional. Gone was the jokester who had photo-bombed a Blake Griffin post-game interview last season. He wanted to be here. Jackson was visibly happy to be playing again and contributing. So where does this lead in the last 25 games?
While Jackson stated before the All-Star Break that he had not considered a buyout, this could make a lot of sense for both sides. The Detroit Pistons are looking toward a youth movement and already have Derrick Rose in the veteran guard role for the team.
For Jackson, it could give him a chance to contribute and chase a ring. Both the Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers have an interest in adding guard depth. Jackson would be a perfect fit off the bench for either team and has a previous relationship with Paul George.
Detroit's Reggie Jackson is still assessing whether to pursue a buyout or complete his Pistons contract, league sources say, but the Clippers have emerged as a likely suitor if Jackson goes that route
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 8, 2020
The Clips, of course, also have interest in prime Laker target Darren Collison
If Jackson was to finish out the season and contract with the Pistons he could absolutely serve to mentor the young players. While the aforementioned Rose and the newly acquired Brandon Knight could serve that function, Jackson is the longest-tenured Piston and could bring the younger players in the culture of this team.
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Bruce Brown has been the nominal starting point guard this season and will likely keep a starting role down the stretch. Jordan Bone has been a star in the G-League but has failed to catch on to a major extent on the main roster.
Head coach Dwane Casey has been adamant that young players need to earn their minutes, something Jackson learned with the Oklahoma City Thunder before coming to the Detroit Pistons. Showing Bone the ropes for the rest of the season could be invaluable for the rookie’s development.
Both the team and the guard need a change of scenery, but given the lost nature of this season there is no true rush. Jackson has been a teammate through and through. Playing out the string in the D and getting an ovation at his final home game may be exactly what he deserves.