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As long as they don’t absolutely collapse over the final five regular season games and open the door for other teams, the Detroit Pistons will be a playoff team this year. Stan Van Gundy has orchestrated a quick turnaround in his second season as head coach and lead executive, and based on that the future looks bright.
Here are five players who won’t be back with the Pistons next season.
5. F Anthony Tolliver
Credit: Getty Images5. F Anthony Tolliver
Tolliver probably carries intangible value that we don't see, which may outweigh what he does on the floor (5.2 points and 3.2 rebounds per game this season). But Tolliver will be a free agent this offseason, and he could find a multi-year contract elsewhere.
4. SG Darrun Hilliard
Credit: Getty Images4. SG Darrun Hilliard
Hilliard hasn't done much in a minimal role this season (3.9 points per game in 36 games). With Jodie Meeks likely to be healthy for the start of next season, after missing all but two games this year with a foot injury, Hilliard doesn't have a clear place in Detroit.
3. F Reggie Bullock
Credit: Getty Images3. F Reggie Bullock
Bullock failed to crack Detroit's rotation this season, with a broken nose, a D-League stint and depth at the wing positions keeping him on the periphery. The Pistons did pick up his option for next season prior to the start of this season, but Bullock could easily find himself on a fourth NBA team in four seasons.
2. C Joel Anthony
Credit: Getty Images2. C Joel Anthony
Anthony almost got traded to the Philadelphia 76ers at the deadline in February, and he has only played 17 games for the Pistons this year. At age 33 (34 in August) with a non-guaranteed $2.5 million in his contract for next season, Anthony's NBA career could be over.
1. PG Steve Blake
Credit: Getty Images1. PG Steve Blake
Blake has value as a veteran backup, as proven by how well-traveled he has been. But he is slated to become a free agent this summer, and Detroit should want a younger player with more upside immediately behind Reggie Jackson.
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