Detroit Pistons: 5 Takeaways From 2014-15 Media Day
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The Detroit Pistons held their 2014-15 Media Day and it was full of new faces and optimism. This officially marks the beginning of a new era in Motown. Here are five takeaways from the event.
No. 5: Brandon Jennings Adds Muscle
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No. 5: Brandon Jennings Adds Muscle
Tim Fuller-USA TODAY-Sports
Brandon Jennings entered training camp 25 pounds heavier, a lot of it of muscle. This doesn't guarantee Jennings suddenly becomes a good point guard, but it should help him defensively against bigger point guards as well as finishing around the rim.
No. 4: Josh Smith Wants Redemption
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No. 4: Josh Smith Wants Redemption
Tim Fuller-USA TODAY-Sports
Josh Smith is ready to put last season behind him. Smith came into camp a bit bulkier and can't wait for Stan Van Gundy to hone in his skills. He doesn't care whether he comes off the bench or not, he knows there's only one goal. “I like to win,” Smith said. “Winning is the No. 1 priority for me. I like how he’s (Van Gundy) making it a competition to keep that competitive edge on everybody. I’m willing to do whatever. I’m a team player.”
No. 3: Greg Monroe Has No Problem with Josh Smith
Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY-Sports
No. 3: Greg Monroe Has No Problem with Josh Smith
Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY-Sports
There were rumors swirling all summer long that Monroe wanted no part in being Josh Smith's teammate. Monroe looked noticeably irked at that notion during Media Day by saying “I understand things will be said, things will be written, but I know the truth. At the end of the day, I’m focused on getting ready for this season. All that stuff is behind me." We'll see if Moose can co-exist with Smith eventually.
No. 2: Drummond is Ready to Lead
Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY-Sports
No. 2: Drummond is Ready to Lead
Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY-Sports
One thing was crystal clear at Media Day -- Drummond is ready to lead. Even though he's only 21 years-old, Drummond believes this is his team and wants to become a dominant player. He's already tired of losing and wants to do everything in his power to bring the Pistons back to the playoffs.
No. 1: Tom Gores Expects to Win as Soon as Possible
Tim Fuller-USA TODAY-Sports
No. 1: Tom Gores Expects to Win as Soon as Possible
Tim Fuller-USA TODAY-Sports
Owner Tom Gores doesn't want to put a timetable on the Pistons' turnaround, but said that he wants to win as soon as possible. "When Stan and I met, the thing we agreed on was to try to win now and not sacrifice the future. We haven't won in a long time in Detroit and I think it's time for us to win. We've got great players and we just got to pull it together."
Fuad Shalhout is a Detroit Pistons writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.