Finally I got to watch a Pistons game. It seems like it has been forever.

I don't want to get too carried away, because we had a very good game, played at a fast pace, got the win, played all the new guys... but it was just one game against Denver's 2nd/3rd string, so I'll keep some perspective.

Maxiell- crazy stats. 11-15, 12 rebounds, 4 assists!, 3 blocks!! We talked about caring vs. not caring- this guy has some hunger. He seems to have taken the challenge to get more boards to heart. They need to really keep pushing him there and reward it.

Stuck- what I'm beginning to realize is that his driving ability and relatively poor J is what we need. He won't settle for the jumper, because he is more comfortable driving. Finally, we have a guy who likes to penetrate, which is what we've been looking for.

Aff- great form. tries on D. Seems to have a solid attitude. Perfect bench player for this season.

Mejia- better than I thought he was. Big. aggressive. Rebounds! Can handle the ball.

Samb- I doubted him b/c I really haven't seen him in action. He's very coordinated for his build. Quick hands on the rebounds. Against other 2nd string players, I think he's ready to contribute.

Hayes- Better for us than Delfino/ Mo Evans. Nice pick-up.

Murray- You gotta give it up for him after this game. Every time he made a mistake he came back with clutchness.

Dupree- 6 points, 2 boards, and a nice fast break assist in only 7 minutes? He can play in an up tempo game.


With Amir in the mix, we have a perfect bench to go up tempo with. They can all contribute... except Nazr, who can be the extra body to insert when absolutely necessary.

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"I’ll just say this: We’re not talking to teams about their second- or third-best players." Joe Dumars talking about his plan to get other teams' 4th best players.